1. Nebraska was admitted to the Union on July 5, 1867, becoming the 37th state in the United States. This day is often celebrated as Nebraska's statehood day.

2. On July 5, 1888, the first train crossed the newly completed Union Pacific Missouri River Bridge, connecting Omaha, Nebraska, with Council Bluffs, Iowa. This bridge was a major engineering feat at the time and still stands over 130 years later.

3. On July 5, 1937, the Lincoln Municipal Airport was dedicated in Lincoln, Nebraska. This airport has since grown and expanded, now serving as the primary commercial airport for the state.

4. In 1963, Nebraska's legislative session began on July 5, marking the first time the state had a biennial session instead of an annual one. This change was intended to streamline the legislative process and make it more efficient.

5. On July 5, 2012, Omaha, Nebraska, was hit by a severe thunderstorm that caused widespread damage and power outages. The storm knocked down trees, flattened buildings, and caused millions of dollars in damage. Despite the devastation, the community came together to help each other and rebuild.