1. Missouri Statehood: On August 19, 1821, Missouri was admitted to the Union as the 24th state. It had been part of the Louisiana Territory until 1803, when it was acquired by the United States in the Louisiana Purchase. Missouri's entry into the Union was controversial, as it was a slave state and its admission upset the balance of free and slave states in Congress.

2. Harry Truman's Birthday: August 19 is the birthday of Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States. Truman was born in Lamar, Missouri in 1884 and served as president from 1945 to 1953. He is perhaps best known for ordering the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, which helped bring an end to World War II.

3. Battle of Wilson's Creek: On August 19, 1861, one of the first major battles of the Civil War took place near Springfield, Missouri. The Battle of Wilson's Creek was fought between Union forces led by General Nathaniel Lyon and Confederate forces under the command of General Sterling Price. The Confederates won the battle, but both sides suffered significant casualties.

4. Missouri State Fair: August 19 marks the opening day of the Missouri State Fair, which takes place annually in Sedalia. The fair features agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, concerts, and competitions for livestock, plants, and crafts. It is one of the largest state fairs in the country and attracts thousands of visitors each year.

5. International Bowhunting Organization: The International Bowhunting Organization was founded in Missouri on August 19, 1984. The organization promotes the sport of bowhunting and works to improve archery equipment and techniques. It also sponsors a series of tournaments and competitions for bowhunters around the world.