Hello, Chicago.
Illinois is known for many things: Abraham Lincoln, the nation’s third-largest city, its vast farmland, political corruption and its die-hard sports fans. But former state historian Samuel Wheeler said there are other, lesser-known elements of Illinois history that make the 21st state in the Union remarkable.
To look back at what made Illinois the 57,000 square miles it is today, here are five of Wheeler’s favorite facts about Illinois, which was ratified as a state on this day in 1818.
Here’s what else is happening today. And don’t forget, for the latest news in Chicago, visit chicagotribune.com/latest-headlines and sign up to receive our alerts on all your devices.
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Madigan prosecutors to question Solis about cooperation against another ‘senior official’ – but can’t mention Edward Burke’s name
Solis, whose astonishing role as an FBI mole is at the center of the Madigan and Burke cases, has been on the witness stand for six days to testify about wiretapped conversations and secret recordings he made of Madigan allegedly agreeing to take official action in exchange for Solis’ help in developing private legal work. Learn more here.
Other important news:
Indiana Utilities Seek Big Power with Field Hearings on NIPSCO’s Whole Electric Rate Cases
NIPSCO’s proposed 22% electric rate increase is significant, but it’s not the only one facing Indiana regulators. Learn more here.
Other notable business stories:
Will Garrett Crochet be traded – and how will the rotation be filled? 3 questions to the Chicago White Sox.
Here are three questions on the mound — including Crochet’s future — and behind the plate as the Sox look toward 2025. Learn more here.
More important sports news:
Lollapalooza 2023
Talia Sprague/Chicago Tribune Kendrick Lamar performs during day two of Lollapalooza on August 4, 2023 at Grant Park in Chicago. (Talia Sprague/Chicago Tribune)
Kendrick Lamar and SZA to play Chicago’s Soldier Field on 2025 North American stadium tour
The artists announced the Grand National Tour, which will take place in 19 stadiums across North America next spring and summer, including Chicago’s Soldier Field. Learn more here.
Higher Eat. Watch. Do. stories:
South Korean parliament votes to defy president by lifting declaration of martial law
The president’s surprising decision recalls an era of authoritarian leaders that the country has not seen since the 1980s, and it was immediately denounced by the opposition and the head of Yoon’s conservative party. Learn more here.
More news from around the world:
