1. Louisiana joined the Confederacy on March 18, 1861: On this day, Louisiana became one of the seven states that seceded from the Union and joined the Confederate States of America, leading to the start of the Civil War. Louisiana played a crucial role in the war, providing soldiers, resources, and a strategic location for military operations.

2. The Louisiana Purchase was ratified on March 18, 1803: The Louisiana Purchase was one of the most significant events in U.S. history, doubling the size of the country and setting the stage for westward expansion. On March 18, 1803, the U.S. Senate ratified the treaty with France, officially transferring ownership of the Louisiana Territory to the United States.

3. Huey P. Long was born on March 18, 1893: Huey P. Long was one of Louisiana's most famous politicians, serving as governor and later as a U.S. Senator. Long was known for his populist policies and his ambition to redistribute wealth in favor of the working-class. He was assassinated in 1935, but his legacy still resonates in Louisiana politics.

4. The Pontchartrain Beach amusement park opened on March 18, 1928: Pontchartrain Beach was a popular amusement park in New Orleans, attracting thousands of visitors every year. The park featured rides, games, and live entertainment, and became a cultural icon in Louisiana. It closed in 1983, but its memory lives on in the hearts of many Louisianians.

5. The St. Joseph's Day Altars are celebrated on March 18: St. Joseph's Day is a Catholic holiday dedicated to St. Joseph, the husband of Mary and the foster father of Jesus. In Louisiana, the holiday is celebrated with elaborate altars that are decorated with flowers, candles, and food. The altars are meant to honor St. Joseph and to feed the poor, and are a beloved tradition in many Louisiana communities.