1. Louisiana becomes the 18th state in the United States of America.

On February 19, 1812, Louisiana officially became the 18th state in the United States of America. Prior to this, Louisiana was a French and Spanish colony before becoming a U.S. territory in 1803 through the Louisiana Purchase.

2. First Mardi Gras Parade in New Orleans

On February 19, 1857, the first Mardi Gras parade was held in New Orleans. The Krewe of Comus was the first organization to use floats, masks, and torches for a parade during Mardi Gras festivities. This tradition remains a significant part of New Orleans' culture and identity to this day.

3. Monument dedicated to the Battle of Fort Charlotte

On February 19, 1938, a monument was dedicated to the Battle of Fort Charlotte in Mobile, Alabama. This battle took place during the Revolutionary War and Louisiana soldiers, under the command of General Bernardo de Galvez, played a critical role in inflicting a significant defeat on the British army. This event proved to be an important turning point in the Revolutionary War.

4. LSU wins the NCAA men's basketball championship

On February 19, 1935, Louisiana State University (LSU) won the NCAA men's basketball championship. This was the first national title for any LSU sports program. The Tigers defeated the University of Pittsburgh by a score of 41-37.

5. First African American woman elected to Louisiana State Senate

On February 19, 1991, Paulette Irons became the first African American woman elected to the Louisiana State Senate. Irons represented District 5, which includes parts of New Orleans and Jefferson Parish, and served in the Senate until 2000. She was a champion of education reform and was instrumental in securing funding for historically black colleges and universities in Louisiana.