1. In 1836, the Battle of San Jacinto took place in Texas, leading to the capture of Mexican General Santa Anna and victory for the Texan army. Many Louisiana residents played important roles in the battle, including future governor and U.S. senator Alexander Mouton.

2. In 1914, the Ludlow Massacre occurred in southern Colorado, where striking coal miners and their families were attacked by the Colorado National Guard and hired gunmen. Among the miners killed was a Louisiana native, Louis Tikas, who had become a leader of the striking workers.

3. The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, also known as Jazz Fest, often begins on or around April 21. First held in 1970, the festival showcases the rich musical traditions of Louisiana and beyond, featuring jazz, blues, gospel, zydeco, and other genres.

4. Louisiana State University was founded on April 21, 1860, as the Louisiana State Seminary of Learning & Military Academy. It would later become the flagship of the LSU System, one of the largest public university systems in the country.

5. In 2002, Louisiana governor Mike Foster signed the Stelly Plan into law, which restructured the state's tax system by eliminating some sales taxes and increasing income and property taxes. The controversial plan was named for state representative Vic Stelly, who crafted the legislation.