1. Michigan became a state

January 19, 1837, marked an important date in Michigan history as it became the 26th state admitted to the Union. After several years of territorial status, the signing of the Michigan Statehood Bill by President Andrew Jackson on January 26, 1837, officially granted Michigan statehood.

2. Birth of boxer Joe Louis

On January 19, 1914, a future heavyweight boxing legend was born in Lafayette, Alabama, but raised in Detroit, Michigan. Joe Louis, also known as the "Brown Bomber," became one of the greatest boxers of all time, winning 66 of 71 fights and holding the heavyweight title for a record 12 years.

3. The first college hockey game

The first intercollegiate ice hockey game in the United States was played on January 19, 1898, between the University of Michigan and the Detroit Athletic Club. Michigan won the game 1-0, marking the birth of a popular sport in the state that would eventually become home to several NHL teams.

4. Michigan welcomes the first Polish immigrants

January 19, 1850, saw the arrival of the first Polish immigrants to Michigan when a group of approximately 400 Polish Catholics landed in Detroit. Over the years, the Polish community in Michigan grew and made significant contributions to the state's culture, including the famous "Pączki Day" celebration.

5. Michigan Civil Rights Act signed into law

On January 19, 1977, Michigan Governor William G. Milliken signed into law the Michigan Civil Rights Act, which prohibited discrimination on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, height, weight, familial status, or marital status. This landmark legislation helped to promote equality and diversity in Michigan society.