1. The first recorded battle of the American Civil War took place in Virginia on May 26, 1861. The Battle of Aquia Creek saw Union troops attempt to capture Confederate artillery and supplies, but ultimately resulted in a Confederate victory.

2. On May 26, 1926, the state of Virginia dedicated the George Rogers Clark National Historical Park in the city of Charlottesville. The park commemorates the Revolutionary War hero who led a successful campaign against British-controlled territory in the West.

3. American musician and songwriter Miles Davis played a concert at the University of Virginia on May 26, 1984. The performance was part of the university's SpringFest celebration, and Davis was joined on stage by a number of other jazz musicians.

4. The Virginia State Capitol building in Richmond was completed on May 26, 1788. The building, designed by Thomas Jefferson, has since undergone several renovations and is still used as the seat of government in the state.

5. On May 26, 1896, the Supreme Court of Virginia issued a decision in the case of Carter v. Commonwealth. The case involved a challenge to Virginia's voting laws, which disenfranchised many African American voters. The court ultimately upheld the laws, contributing to the ongoing struggle for equal voting rights in the state.