1. In 1930, the famous Sioux Falls flood occurred on March 18. The Big Sioux River flooded the city, causing widespread damage and claiming several lives.

2. On March 18, 1962, South Dakotan astronaut Joe Engle made his first space flight as the pilot of the X-15 aircraft. He later went on to become a commander of the Space Shuttle program.

3. In 1881, the state's first newspaper, the "Pioneer Press," was printed on March 18 in Yankton. This newspaper chronicled the early days of Dakota Territory and helped promote the growing state's agricultural and mining industries.

4. The famous poet Robert Bly was born in Madison, South Dakota on March 18, 1926. Bly was known for his powerful and innovative poetry, which explored themes of nature, spirituality, and social justice.

5. On March 18, 1898, South Dakota became the first state to adopt a statewide initiative and referendum system. This allowed citizens to petition for and vote on laws and statutes directly, bypassing the state legislature. The system remains in place today and is a key feature of the state's political landscape.