1. In 1980, May 2 was declared as "Iowa Energy Conservation Day" by then-Governor Robert Ray. This was done to encourage residents and businesses to conserve energy in response to the energy crisis of the 1970s.

2. On May 2, 1919, Iowa became the tenth state in the United States to ratify the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, which granted women the right to vote. This was a significant milestone in the women's suffrage movement.

3. The town of Marshalltown, Iowa was struck by a devastating tornado on May 2, 1868. The tornado caused widespread damage and killed 18 people. It remains one of the deadliest tornadoes in Iowa's history.

4. May 2, 1945 was the day that the Battle of Berlin officially ended, signaling the end of World War II in Europe. Many Iowans served in the war effort and contributed to the eventual victory.

5. The Iowa State Capitol building was dedicated on May 2, 1884, after 15 years of construction. This iconic structure is a symbol of Iowa's rich history and proud heritage.