1. The Dakota Sioux Uprising of 1862 began on July 2. This conflict between the Dakota Sioux and white settlers led to the deaths of hundreds of people and resulted in the largest mass execution in U.S. history.

2. In 1917, on July 2, the deadliest tornado in Minnesota's history struck the town of Tyler. It killed 36 people and destroyed over 100 homes.

3. July 2, 1961, was the day that famous attorney and civil rights activist, Clarence Darrow, passed away at his home in Minneapolis. Darrow is known for his role in defending high-profile trials such as the Scopes Monkey Trial.

4. The Minnesota Vikings were gifted to the NFL on July 2, 1959. They played their first game in 1961 and have since become a prominent team in the league.

5. On July 2, 2000, the infamous Hennepin Avenue Bridge collapse occurred. This disaster resulted in the deaths of 13 people and brought about significant changes in infrastructure safety measures in the state.