1. On May 16, 1874, the Brooks-Baxter War began in Little Rock, Arkansas. The political conflict was between the newly elected Democratic governor, Augustus H. Garland, and a group of Republicans who supported the previous governor, Elisha Baxter. The conflict resulted in violence and bloodshed, with both sides forming militias and engaging in armed clashes.

2. On May 16, 1918, the Arkansas State Flag was officially adopted. The design features a diamond shape, which represents Arkansas as the only state in the US with a diamond mine. The blue color and stars on the flag represent the Confederacy, and the white color represents Arkansas as a member of the United States.

3. On May 16, 1929, Little Rock Central High School was opened. The high school is significant for its role in the desegregation movement in the US. In 1957, nine African American students were enrolled at the school, becoming the first black students to attend a previously all-white school in the South.

4. On May 16, 1946, the Ozark National Forest was established. Covering over 1 million acres in northern and western Arkansas, the forest is home to many species of wildlife, including black bears, elk, and bald eagles. It also offers recreational opportunities such as camping, hiking, and fishing.

5. On May 16, 1970, the anti-Vietnam War protests in Little Rock turned violent. After a peaceful march, tensions rose between protesters and police, leading to a crackdown and arrests. The event sparked further protests and demonstrations throughout Arkansas and the US, as the Vietnam War remained a controversial and divisive issue.