1. Birth of Jazz Legend Ella Fitzgerald: On April 26, 1917, iconic jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald was born in Newport News, Virginia. However, she grew up in North Carolina, where she began her music career by singing in local clubs. Fitzgerald went on to become one of the most famous jazz singers of all time, winning numerous awards and selling millions of records.

2. Incorporation of the Town of Carrboro: On April 26, 1911, the town of Carrboro was officially incorporated in North Carolina. Originally known as West End, the town was renamed in honor of North Carolina industrialist Julian Shakespeare Carr. Today, Carrboro is home to around 20,000 residents and is known for its vibrant arts scene.

3. Raleigh Tornado Outbreak: On April 26, 2011, a massive tornado outbreak swept through North Carolina, causing widespread damage and claiming numerous lives. The city of Raleigh was particularly hard hit, with numerous homes and businesses destroyed. The storm system also caused significant damage in other parts of the state, including Sanford and Fayetteville.

4. Opening of the North Carolina Zoo: On April 26, 1974, the North Carolina Zoo opened its doors to the public for the first time. Located in Asheboro, the zoo is one of the largest in the country, with a diverse collection of animals from around the world. It attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and is a popular destination for families and school groups.

5. Battle of Plymouth: On April 26, 1864, Union forces under General John G. Foster launched an assault on the Confederate-controlled town of Plymouth, North Carolina. The battle was part of a larger campaign to gain control of the Eastern North Carolina region and cut off Confederate supply lines. After two days of intense fighting, the Union forces were ultimately successful in capturing the town and securing a major strategic victory. However, the battle also resulted in significant loss of life on both sides.