1. On October 23, 1867, the territory of Alaska was formally transferred from Russia to the United States. This event is now celebrated as Alaska Day and marks an important milestone in the state's history.

2. In 1958, the world's largest earthquakes ever recorded hit Alaska on October 23. Measuring as an impressive 9.2 on the Richter scale, the quake resulted in widespread destruction and claimed the lives of more than 100 people.

3. On October 23, 1941, the first Alaska Highway Task Force was established to begin work on the construction of the famous Alaska Highway. The highway was built as part of the U.S. war effort during World War II and remains a vital transportation link for the state.

4. In 2002, the first woman governor of Alaska was inaugurated on October 23. Sarah Palin served as governor from 2006 to 2009 and went on to become a prominent figure in national politics, running as the vice-presidential candidate on the Republican ticket in 2008.

5. Finally, on October 23, 1974, the Iditarod National Historic Trail was designated as a National Historic Trail by the U.S. Department of the Interior. The trail is famous for its use as a dog-sled route and is now a popular destination for visitors to Alaska.