1. In 1763, a group of colonists in Haverhill protested against the Stamp Act, which they saw as an unfair tax on paper goods. The protest led to a boycott of British goods and helped to spark the American Revolution.

2. On July 17, 1821, the state of Massachusetts officially abolished slavery, becoming the first state in the U.S. to do so. This was a significant milestone in the fight for freedom and civil rights.

3. On this day in 1861, the 26th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment was mustered into service for the Civil War. The regiment would go on to serve in many of the major battles of the war and was known for its bravery and resilience.

4. In 1916, a massive polio epidemic hit New England, including Massachusetts. Thousands of people were infected, and many died or suffered lifelong disabilities. This was a wake-up call for public health officials to focus on preventing and treating infectious diseases.

5. On July 17, 1955, the Boston Red Sox played their first game at Fenway Park after installing lights for night games. The game ended in a 5-0 victory over the Kansas City Athletics, and the park has been a beloved landmark and cultural icon ever since.