1. Louisiana became a state on March 1, 1812. It was the 18th state to join the United States.

2. In 1896, Plessy v. Ferguson, a landmark civil rights case, was argued before the Louisiana Supreme Court. The case challenged the constitutionality of segregated facilities and would eventually be heard by the U.S. Supreme Court.

3. On March 1, 1864, Confederate General Richard Taylor led his troops in a successful surprise attack against Union General Nathaniel Banks' Army in the Battle of Mansfield. This victory helped the Confederates maintain control of Louisiana for a few more months.

4. The first Mardi Gras parade was held in New Orleans on March 1, 1837. It was organized by a group of businessmen called the Mistick Krewe of Comus and featured colorful floats, masked revelers, and music.

5. Louisiana's first African American governor, P.B.S. Pinchback, was inaugurated on March 1, 1873. He served as governor for 35 days, fulfilling the remaining term of the previous governor who had resigned.