1. In 1879, the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad reached Leadville, Colorado, one of the country's richest and most famous mining communities. The railroad provided a faster and more efficient means of transportation for the silver and gold mined in the area.

2. In 1929, the stock market crashed, leading to the Great Depression. Colorado was hit hard by the economic downturn, as many of the state's agricultural and mining industries suffered. The impact of the Great Depression was felt throughout the state for many years.

3. In 1967, the University of Colorado at Boulder was the site of a large anti-war demonstration, which culminated in clashes between protesters and police. The event became known as the "Buffalo Crash," and it marked a turning point in the anti-war movement in Colorado.

4. In 2002, a severe drought hit Colorado, which led to devastating wildfires throughout the state. The Hayman Fire, which started on June 8, 2002, was the most destructive wildfire in state history, burning over 138,000 acres and destroying over 130 homes.

5. In 2013, Colorado became the first state in the country to legalize recreational marijuana. The move was controversial, but supporters argued that it would generate significant revenue for the state and reduce the number of people incarcerated for minor drug offenses.