1. Louisiana became a state: On August 1, 1812, Louisiana officially became the 18th state in the United States. The state's unique culture, history and traditions have made it one of the most fascinating and vibrant states in the country.

2. The Battle of Baton Rouge: On August 1, 1862, during the Civil War, Union forces under the command of Nathaniel Banks captured the city of Baton Rouge, Louisiana after a fierce battle with Confederate forces. This was a key victory for the Union forces as it helped cut off the supply lines of the Confederates.

3. Louisiana Food Festival: August marks National Louisiana Food Festival Month, a celebration of the unique flavors and dishes that are native to Louisiana. From jambalaya to gumbo, crawfish to beignets, there's no shortage of delicious foods to try in the state.

4. Jazz Legend Louis Armstrong's Birthday: August 1 also marks the birthday of one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time, Louis Armstrong. Raised in New Orleans, Armstrong's music embodied the spirit of the city and helped shape the genre of jazz as we know it today.

5. Hurricane Katrina: On August 1, 2005, Hurricane Katrina first formed over the Bahamas. The storm would later make landfall in Louisiana just a few days later, causing widespread devastation and loss of life. The storm remains one of the most devastating natural disasters in the state's history.