1. 1777: Battle of Rhode Island: On January 23, 1777, British troops landed on Aquidneck Island, which led to the Battle of Rhode Island. The Americans, led by General John Sullivan and Count Casimir Pulaski, fought against the overwhelming British force but ultimately retreated.

2. 1934: First Quonset hut constructed: The first Quonset hut, a type of prefabricated building, was constructed on the Davisville Naval Construction Battalion Center in Rhode Island on January 23, 1934. This type of building was widely used during World War II for military housing and storage.

3. 1961: Ramp returned to Newport Naval Base: On January 23, 1961, a ceremonial ramp was returned to the Newport Naval Base after being taken by the British during the American Revolution. The ramp was considered a symbol of American military prowess and was returned after negotiations between the United States and Britain.

4. 1980: Blizzard of 1980: Rhode Island was hit by a major blizzard on January 23, 1980. The storm brought heavy snow and high winds, causing widespread power outages and closing many businesses and schools.

5. 2005: Billy Gilman performs at Presidential Inauguration: Rhode Island native Billy Gilman performed at the 2005 Presidential Inauguration of President George W. Bush on January 23, 2005. Gilman, who became famous as a child country music singer, performed the song "Peaceful World" at the event.