1. In 1636, the settlement that would become Hartford was founded by a group of English Puritans led by Reverend Thomas Hooker.

2. In 1776, the Battle of White Plains was fought between British and American forces during the American Revolutionary War. Though the Americans lost the battle, they were able to delay the British advance towards New York City.

3. In 1871, the Great Chicago Fire, one of the most devastating fires in American history, finally came to an end after burning for three days. Many Connecticut residents contributed funds and supplies to aid in the city's recovery.

4. In 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Higher Education Act, which aimed to provide financial assistance to students seeking higher education. The act paved the way for federal financial aid programs that continue to this day.

5. In 2011, the state of Connecticut was struck by a powerful snowstorm known as Winter Storm Alfred, which caused widespread power outages and damage. Some areas were without power for several weeks, and the storm ultimately caused over $1 billion in damage.