1. In 1857, the Minnesota territorial legislature approved the establishment of the University of Minnesota, which would go on to become one of the largest and most prestigious public universities in the United States.

2. In 1878, Minnesota became the first state to establish a forestry service, recognizing the importance of preserving and protecting the state's vast forests and natural resources.

3. On March 26, 1901, the Minnesota State Capitol building in St. Paul was completed, after nearly eight years of construction. The building, designed by architect Cass Gilbert, is considered one of the most beautiful and ornate statehouses in the country.

4. In 1912, the Duluth, Missabe and Iron Range Railway was completed, greatly expanding access to the rich iron ore deposits in Minnesota's Mesabi Range and fueling the state's industrial growth.

5. On March 26, 1998, Minnesota became the first state in the nation to require all hospitals to report adverse medical events, with the goal of improving patient safety and reducing medical errors. This landmark legislation paved the way for similar laws in other states and has helped to improve the quality of healthcare nationwide.