1. Vermont became the first state to abolish slavery on May 17, 1777. This was included in Vermont's constitution, making it the first state to make slavery illegal, and pre-dating the Emancipation Proclamation by nearly 100 years.

2. May 17, 1814, marked the opening of the Champlain Canal, which connected Lake Champlain to the Hudson River, making transportation of goods and people easier between the two regions.

3. On May 17, 1886, Vermont's first electric streetcar began operation in Burlington. It was a major technological advancement in public transportation and helped change the way people lived and worked in the city.

4. The first weekend of May each year is dedicated to the annual Vermont History Expo, which began on May 17, 2009. The expo celebrates the state's rich history and allows visitors to step back in time and participate in historical reenactments, demonstrations, and exhibits.

5. On May 17, 2013, Vermont became the first state to require the labeling of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food. The law, known as Act 120, was passed by the Vermont legislature and signed by Governor Peter Shumlin. It was later challenged in court but ultimately allowed to stand.