1. Arkansas became a state on May 1, 1836.
On May 1, 1836, Arkansas officially became the 25th state of the United States. Prior to this, Arkansas had been a territory of the United States since 1819.

2. The first African American to serve in the Arkansas Senate was elected on May 1, 1873.
In 1873, African American politician James W. Mason was elected to serve in the Arkansas Senate, becoming the first person of color to hold this position in the state.

3. The Great Mississippi Flood of 1927 reached its peak in Arkansas on May 1.
One of the worst natural disasters in American history, the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927 caused widespread devastation across the Mississippi River Basin. In Arkansas, the flood reached its peak on May 1, with record-breaking water levels that caused significant damage to homes, farms, and infrastructure.

4. A devastating tornado outbreak hit Arkansas on May 1, 2010.
On May 1, 2010, a series of powerful tornadoes struck parts of Arkansas, causing widespread destruction and leaving 16 people dead. The outbreak was part of a larger severe weather event that affected several states across the Midwest and Southeastern United States.

5. Arkansas celebrated its bicentennial on May 1, 2019.
On May 1, 2019, Arkansas marked its 200th anniversary since becoming a territory of the United States in 1819. The state celebrated with a variety of events and activities throughout the year, including historical exhibits, cultural festivals, and community gatherings.