Here are 5 interesting facts about March 1 in Arkansas history:

1. In 1873, the Arkansas state legislature passed a bill authorizing the construction of a new state capitol building in Little Rock. The original capitol building was destroyed during the Civil War, and for several years, state legislators had met in rented rooms or in a makeshift building.

2. On March 1, 1947, the University of Arkansas Medical School opened its doors in Little Rock. The school had been established through the efforts of a group of physicians and community leaders who saw a need for more medical education opportunities in the state.

3. In 1973, Arkansas Governor Dale Bumpers signed into law the "Basic Education Act," which overhauled the state's public education system. The law raised the minimum teacher salary, provided more state funding for schools, and required students to attend school until age 16.

4. On March 1, 1985, the Arkansas State Police arrested cult leader Tony Alamo on charges of transporting minors across state lines for sexual purposes. Alamo led a controversial religious group that had been accused of child abuse, polygamy, and other crimes.

5. In 1999, the Arkansas Razorbacks men's basketball team upset the top-ranked Duke Blue Devils in a memorable regular-season game. The Razorbacks were led by future NBA players Corliss Williamson and Scotty Thurman, and the victory helped propel them to the NCAA championship that year.