1. Louisiana became the 18th state in the United States on this day in 1812. The name Louisiana means "land of Louis" in French, in honor of King Louis XIV.

2. The Battle of Lake Borgne took place on December 12, 1814, during the War of 1812. This was a naval battle between the British Royal Navy and the United States Navy, and was fought on the largest body of water in Louisiana.

3. In 1936, the Huey P. Long Bridge, named after Louisiana's famous governor and senator, was officially opened. This bridge spans the Mississippi River and connects the cities of Baton Rouge and New Orleans.

4. On December 12, 1939, an oil well called "Big Hum" was discovered in the Gulf of Mexico, off the coast of Louisiana. This well was one of the largest oil discoveries in the world at the time and played a key role in the state's oil industry.

5. In 1975, the Louisiana Superdome officially opened in New Orleans. This iconic stadium has hosted many major events, including seven Super Bowls, the NCAA Final Four basketball tournament, and numerous concerts and conventions.