1. On May 3, 1921, a devastating flood hit the city of Grossetete, Louisiana, destroying homes, businesses, and crops. The disaster was caused by heavy rain that fell over several days and overwhelmed the levee system. More than 700 people were left homeless, and the town never fully recovered.

2. In 1913, on May 3, the famous blues musician, Lead Belly, was released from the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola. He had been sentenced to 30 years for murder but had his sentence commuted after performing for the governor. Lead Belly went on to become one of the most influential blues artists of his time.

3. On May 3, 1803, the United States completed the Louisiana Purchase from France, acquiring more than 800,000 square miles of land for $15 million. The acquisition doubled the size of the country and opened up new territories for settlement and exploration.

4. In 1960, on May 3, the first televised debate for a Louisiana gubernatorial election took place between incumbent Earl Long and challenger Jimmie Davis. The debate was a historic moment for Louisiana politics, as it marked the first time voters could see and hear the candidates in a live broadcast.

5. On May 3, 1969, the New Orleans Saints played their first-ever game at Tulane Stadium. The Saints, an expansion team in the National Football League, lost to the Los Angeles Rams, 27-13. The team would go on to struggle for many years but has since become a beloved institution in Louisiana sports culture.