1. In 1859, Missouri River pirates robbed a steamboat named Arabia near Kansas City. The pirates made off with $200,000 worth of goods, including clothing, tools, and food. The boat sank later that day, but the wreck was rediscovered over a century later in 1988. The Arabia Steamboat Museum now displays many of the recovered items.

2. On January 11, 1861, Missouri governor Claiborne F. Jackson declared Missouri to be a neutral state in the American Civil War. However, the state would later become a battleground as Union and Confederate forces fought for control.

3. In 1935, the first Missouri State Highway Patrol Academy opened in Jefferson City. Today, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is responsible for enforcing traffic laws and investigating crimes on Missouri's highways.

4. On January 11, 1944, the city of St. Louis hosted the first medical meeting on cardiovascular disease. The meeting, organized by Dr. Michael DeBakey, brought together physicians from across the country to discuss the prevention and treatment of heart disease.

5. In 1965, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis was completed, becoming an iconic symbol of the city and the state of Missouri. The Arch stands 630 feet tall and is made of stainless steel. Visitors can ride to the top for panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River.