1. Tennessee became the 16th state in the Union on June 1, 1796. However, the first state constitution was not ratified until July 5, 1796. This milestone allowed Tennessee to officially join the United States as a sovereign state.
2. On July 5, 1830, the legendary frontiersman Davy Crockett delivered his famous "Not Yours To Give" speech to the U.S. House of Representatives. The speech defended his vote against a government appropriation to a family whose house had burned down, arguing that it was not the government's responsibility to provide charity.
3. The Battle of Thompson's Station took place in Williamson County, Tennessee on March 5, 1863, during the Civil War. However, the Confederate forces that were defeated in the battle did not fully retreat until July 5 of that year.
4. In the early 20th century, July 5 was celebrated as "Negro Day" at the annual Tri-State Fair in Memphis, Tennessee. The day included a parade and various exhibits celebrating African American achievements and culture.
5. On July 5, 1954, WSMV-TV (then known as WSM-TV) first signed on the air as Nashville's first television station. The station initially broadcast in black and white, and was affiliated with the National Broadcasting Company (NBC).