1. In 1863, the Territory of Montana was officially established. Prior to this, the region had been part of the Dakota, Idaho, and Washington Territories, but its vast size and unique cultural identity led to its designation as its own territory.

2. On May 16, 1888, the first issue of The Billings Gazette was published in Billings, Montana. The paper still operates today, making it the oldest continually operating newspaper in Montana.

3. Montana State University was founded on May 16, 1893 in Bozeman, Montana. Originally known as the Agricultural College of the State of Montana, it has since grown to become the largest university in the state with over 16,000 students.

4. On May 16, 1910, Glacier National Park was established in northwestern Montana. Covering over 1 million acres of pristine wilderness, it is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, as well as numerous glaciers and mountain peaks.

5. In 1975, a magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck the town of Norris, Montana, causing significant damage to buildings and infrastructure. While there were no fatalities, the quake served as a reminder of Montana's unique vulnerability to seismic activity, which is often overlooked due to its association with more famously earthquake-prone regions.