1. On May 20, 1861, Alabama voted to secede from the United States and join the Confederate States of America. The state played a significant role in the Civil War, with many battles and skirmishes fought on its soil.

2. On May 20, 1933, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) was created by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as part of his New Deal program. The TVA had a major impact on Alabama, bringing electricity and economic development to the region.

3. On May 20, 1961, the Freedom Riders arrived in Montgomery, Alabama, as part of their campaign to challenge segregation on interstate buses. The riders faced violent attacks by white supremacist groups, and their efforts helped to bring about civil rights reforms.

4. On May 20, 2006, an EF3 tornado tore through the town of Enterprise, Alabama, killing nine people and injuring dozens more. The tornado caused extensive damage, including the collapse of a high school gym where students were seeking shelter.

5. On May 20, 2019, Alabama passed a controversial new abortion law that bans nearly all abortions in the state, even in cases of rape or incest. The law sparked a national debate and was criticized by many as a violation of women's rights.