1. In 1979, Tropical Storm Claudette hit the Florida coast causing major floods and destruction. This storm produced over 45 inches of rain and is ranked as one of the deadliest tropical storms in US history.

2. In 1968, Robert F. Kennedy was assassinated in California. He had previously campaigned in Florida during his race for the democratic presidential nomination earlier that year.

3. In 1953, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge was opened to traffic. This iconic bridge spans Tampa Bay and is a major landmark in Florida.

4. In 1835, the Second Seminole War began in Florida. The war lasted for seven years and was fought between the US government and the Seminole tribe.

5. In 1981, the Florida Legislature passed a law requiring all motorcycle riders to wear helmets. This law has since been repealed, but at the time it was viewed as a major step towards improving motorcycle safety in the state.