1. In 1963, the Illinois Tollway opened its first section of the Northwest Tollway between Des Plaines and Elgin. This new highway allowed for faster travel and helped spur development in the surrounding areas.

2. On March 18, 2005, the Illinois Senate passed landmark legislation that required all new homes to have carbon monoxide detectors installed. This law was enacted to help prevent deaths and illnesses caused by the dangerous gas.

3. March 18, 1837 marks the date that the Illinois state government began construction on the first state capitol building in Springfield. This building would serve as the seat of the Illinois government until a larger, more modern building was constructed in the early 20th century.

4. On March 18, 1922, the Illinois Institute of Technology was founded in Chicago. This private university is known for its strong engineering and architecture programs, and has produced numerous successful alumni over the years.

5. In 2011, the Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball team won their first NCAA tournament game in over five years on March 18th. Led by star player Demetri McCamey, the team went on to win two more tournament games before being eliminated in the Sweet Sixteen.