Below are some historical events that happened on April 17 in Kansas:

1. In 1863, Union and Confederate forces clashed in the Battle of Polson's Ranch near Baxter Springs, Kansas. The battle resulted in a Union victory and helped to secure Kansas from Confederate advances.

2. In 1871, the University of Kansas was founded in Lawrence, Kansas. The university is now one of the largest public research universities in the United States.

3. In 1903, the first automobile rolled off the assembly line at the Ford Motor Company's Kansas City plant.

4. In 1951, the first commercial jet airline service began between Kansas City and New York City.

5. In 1973, the Kansas City Royals played their first game in franchise history, defeating the Texas Rangers 4-3. The Royals would eventually win their first World Series championship in 1985.