Janes timeline By bravebobcats Dec 3, 1818 Illinois became a state. Illinois Jan 1, 1832 The Black Hawk war ends and Native Americans lose to the governor. Illinois Jan 1, 1839 Springfield became the state capital. Illinois Jan 1, 1871 The Chicago Fire destroyed 20,000 buildings. Illinois Jan 1, 1909 A coal mine fire happened at Cherry with 259 deaths. Illinois Jan 1, 1966 For the first time,Illinois leads the USA in exports of agriculture and manufactured products. Illinois Jan 1, 1970 After secertary of state Paul Powell's death,$800,000 are found in shoeboxes in his hotel room. Illinois Jan 1, 1974 The Sears Tower is completed. Illinois Jan 1, 2006 FBI arrested seven people who were suspected of plotting to blow up the Sears Tower. Illinois Jan 1, 2012 Former Governor Rod Blagojevich,started his 14-year prison sentence after being convicted of 18 counts of federal corruption. Illinois