1. In 1796, Tennessee becomes the 16th state to join the United States of America. Despite being a small state, Tennessee played a significant role in the Civil War and reconstruction era, with several important battles taking place on its soil.

2. On May 18, 1910, the Southern Railway Company inaugurated the "Tennessean" train service, which connected Knoxville, Tennessee, with Washington, D.C. The train was a popular mode of transportation for people travelling between the two cities until 1956 when the service was discontinued.

3. On May 18, 1920, the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was adopted by the Tennessee General Assembly. This amendment granted women the right to vote, making Tennessee the 36th and final state needed to ratify the amendment. The event is now referred to as the "Perfect 36" and is celebrated annually.

4. May 18, 1988, marks one of the most tragic events in Tennessee's history. An explosion at the French Quarter Inn in Nashville killed 7 people and injured 20 others. The incident was caused by a pipe bomb, and the perpetrator was never caught.

5. May 18, 2019, marked the opening of the National Museum of African American Music in Nashville. The museum celebrates the significant contributions and achievements of African American musicians and showcases their impact on all forms of American music, from gospel to hip-hop. The museum is the only one of its kind in the country and has quickly become a popular cultural destination in Tennessee.