1. On March 15, 1966, civil rights activist James Meredith began his March Against Fear from Tennessee to Mississippi to protest racism and discrimination. During his journey, he was shot and wounded by a sniper. The incident attracted national attention and led to thousands of people joining the march in support.

2. On March 15, 1877, Governor Adelbert Ames of Mississippi was forced to resign under pressure from white Democrats who were opposed to Reconstruction efforts that aimed to provide equal rights for black citizens. Ames' resignation paved the way for the return of white supremacy and the rise of Jim Crow laws in the state.

3. On March 15, 1864, the Battle of Jackson took place during the American Civil War. Union forces led by General William T. Sherman seized control of the state capital and burned much of the city in retaliation for Mississippi's role in the Confederacy.

4. On March 15, 1817, Mississippi was officially admitted as the 20th state of the United States. Its capital was established in Natchez before being moved to Jackson in 1822.

5. On March 15, 1915, Governor Earl Leroy Brewer signed a bill that made Mississippi the first state in the US to introduce statewide prohibition of alcohol. The law remained in effect until 1966 when it was finally repealed.