1. Louisiana became the 18th state in the United States on January 4, 1812. The state was originally established as a French colony, and later became a Spanish territory before being incorporated into the United States.

2. On January 4, 1948, the Louisiana State University football team won the Sugar Bowl, a prestigious annual college football game held in New Orleans. This victory marked the first time that LSU had won the Sugar Bowl, and helped to establish the team as a dominant force in college football.

3. Louisiana is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the Louisiana pine snake. This species is listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act, and is found in only a few areas of the state. This snake is known for its distinctive pattern of black and yellow scales, and is an important part of the region's ecosystem.

4. On January 4, 1966, the first African American mayor in Louisiana was elected in the town of Waterproof. Ernest Gaines, a prominent Louisiana author, documented the historic election in his book "In My Father's House."

5. Louisiana is known for its vibrant music scene, which includes styles such as jazz, blues, and zydeco. The state's largest music festival, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, often takes place in late April or early May. However, on January 4, 1923, legendary jazz trumpeter and singer Louis Armstrong made his first recording in New Orleans, launching a career that would span five decades and leave an indelible mark on American music.