1. In 1786, the Virginia General Assembly adopted the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, which would later influence the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. The statute, written by Thomas Jefferson, protected religious freedom and disestablished the Church of England as Virginia's official church.

2. In 1862, the Battle of Pea Ridge, also known as the Battle of Elkhorn Tavern, began in Arkansas. Virginia military forces took part in the battle, with the 26th Virginia Infantry Regiment fighting on the Confederate side.

3. In 1912, the Virginia General Assembly approved the establishment of a state highway system, with the goal of improving transportation and commerce throughout the state. Over the following decades, Virginia would become a leader in highway construction and management.

4. In 1950, the Virginia State Police was established to provide law enforcement and traffic safety services throughout the state. Today, the agency has over 2,300 sworn personnel and operates from 69 field offices.

5. In 2015, Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe announced a $2 billion rail project that would improve passenger and freight service along the I-95 corridor. The project, known as Atlantic Gateway, includes upgrades to rail infrastructure, stations, and equipment, as well as improvements to highway and transit connections. The project is expected to create jobs, improve regional mobility, and support economic growth.