1. On July 11, 1979, former Arkansas governor Winthrop Rockefeller died. Rockefeller was the state's first Republican governor since Reconstruction and was known for his efforts to integrate Arkansas schools and reduce corruption in state government.

2. In 1836, Arkansas became the 25th state to join the United States. The decision was controversial, as anti-slavery activists argued that Arkansas' admission would only further entrench the institution of slavery in the new country.

3. On July 11, 1969, the Fayetteville Shale was discovered in Arkansas. The shale formation contains significant deposits of natural gas and oil, and has been a major source of energy production in the state.

4. In 1980, former Arkansas governor Orval Faubus died. Faubus was known for his controversial decision to use the National Guard to prevent the integration of Little Rock Central High School in 1957.

5. On July 11, 1862, Union forces won the Battle of Hill's Plantation during the Civil War. The battle was part of a larger campaign to gain control of the Mississippi River, which played a crucial role in the war's outcome.