1. The Little Rock Nine were prevented from entering Central High School (1957): On August 28, 1957, the Little Rock Nine, a group of African American students, attempted to enter the previously all-white Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas. Despite a Supreme Court ruling that struck down segregation in public schools, Arkansas Governor Orval Faubus mobilized the Arkansas National Guard to prevent the students from entering the school. This event marked a turning point in the Civil Rights Movement.

2. The state's first university was founded (1871): Arkansas State University was founded on August 28, 1871, as the state's first institution of higher education. It began as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Arkansas, with a mission to teach "agricultural, mechanical, and military arts."

3. A major flood devastated the state (1917): On August 28, 1917, a massive flood devastated much of eastern Arkansas. The flood was caused by heavy rains that resulted in the Mississippi River and its tributaries overflowing their banks. The flood caused significant damage to crops, homes, and infrastructure, and led to a significant loss of life.

4. The Razorbacks played their first football game (1894): On August 28, 1894, the University of Arkansas Razorbacks played their first football game against the Fort Smith High School team. The Razorbacks won the game 32-0, beginning a long tradition of football excellence at the university.

5. The state's largest earthquake occurred (1856): On August 28, 1856, the largest earthquake in Arkansas history occurred. The earthquake measured 7.0 on the Richter scale, and was centered near the town of Bayou Bartholomew. The earthquake caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure throughout the region.