1. In 1958, the USS Nautilus, the world's first nuclear-powered submarine, arrived at the Arctic Circle on July 9th after traveling under the polar ice cap. This historic achievement proved the feasibility of using nuclear-powered submarines for long-range missions in the Arctic region.

2. On July 9, 1985, a magnitude-7.7 earthquake struck the Aleutian Islands, causing landslides and significant damage to buildings and infrastructure. The earthquake also generated a tsunami that traveled across the Pacific Ocean, causing damage and fatalities in Hawaii and other locations.

3. In 2011, on July 9th, the Cruise Ship Zaandam ran aground in Glacier Bay National Park, causing significant damage to the hull. The ship was later repaired and back in service.

4. On July 9, 1992, the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act was amended to establish the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage. The center aims to promote the conservation and celebration of Alaska Native cultures and traditions.

5. In 2004, on July 9th, the Alaska State Legislature approved a bill to change the state's official motto to "North to the Future." The previous motto, "The Great Land," had been in use since 1967. The new motto reflects Alaska's forward-looking spirit and its determination to shape its own destiny in the 21st century.