1. Kentucky became a state on April 1, 1792: Kentucky was the 15th state to join the Union, but the first state to be formed west of the Appalachian Mountains. April 1 marks the official day that Kentucky became a state.

2. The Battle of Perryville took place on April 1, 1863: The Battle of Perryville was fought in Boyle County, Kentucky, during the American Civil War. It was one of the bloodiest battles fought in Kentucky and resulted in over 7,600 casualties.

3. The Kentucky Derby was first run on April 1, 1875: The Kentucky Derby is a horse race held annually at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The first running of the Derby took place on April 1, 1875, and it has been held on the first Saturday in May ever since.

4. Kentucky native Muhammad Ali was born on April 1, 1942: Muhammad Ali is considered one of the greatest boxers of all time. He was born in Louisville, Kentucky, on April 1, 1942, and went on to win the heavyweight boxing championship three times.

5. The Louisville Zoo first opened on April 1, 1969: The Louisville Zoo is a popular attraction in Kentucky that is home to over 1,300 animals. It first opened its doors to the public on April 1, 1969, and has been entertaining and educating visitors ever since.