1. In 1859, the town of Lawrence, Kansas, was attacked by pro-slavery forces in what became known as the "Wakarusa War." The conflict was over whether Kansas would allow slavery or be a free state.

2. In 1861, the American Civil War began. Kansas was one of the first states to join the Union and sent more soldiers per capita to fight in the war than any other state.

3. In 1874, a tornado destroyed much of the town of Ottawa, Kansas, killing 18 people and injuring over 60 others.

4. In 1951, the Kansas Turnpike opened, allowing for faster travel across the state and boosting economic growth.

5. In 1985, the Great Plains tornado outbreak produced a devastating tornado that hit the town of Udall, Kansas, killing 80 people and causing significant damage.