1. North Carolina State University was founded on May 3, 1887.
North Carolina State University, often referred to as NCSU or simply State, is a public research university located in Raleigh, North Carolina. The university was founded on May 3, 1887, as the North Carolina College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts.

2. The state's first public television station signed on the air on May 3, 1954.
UNC-TV, the state's flagship public television station, signed on the air on May 3, 1954, becoming the first public television station in North Carolina.

3. The Wright Brothers made their first powered flight in North Carolina on May 3, 1900.
On May 3, 1900, the Wright Brothers successfully made their first powered flight in North Carolina, flying their Wright Glider over 600 feet at Kill Devil Hills.

4. North Carolina was admitted to the Confederacy on May 3, 1861.
On May 3, 1861, North Carolina seceded from the Union and was admitted to the Confederate States of America.

5. The Battle of Chancellorsville, in which North Carolina troops played a pivotal role, began on May 3, 1863.
The Battle of Chancellorsville, one of the most significant battles of the American Civil War, began on May 3, 1863. North Carolina troops played a pivotal role in the battle, which resulted in a Confederate victory.