1. Louisiana became the 18th state in the United States on May 31, 1812. The state's name is derived from the French term La Louisiane, which means "Land of Louis."

2. On May 31, 1865, Union General Edward Canby arrived in New Orleans to announce the end of the Civil War in Louisiana. This marked a turning point in the state's history and set the stage for Reconstruction.

3. The famous blues musician, Jelly Roll Morton, was born in New Orleans on May 31, 1890. Morton is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of jazz music and his influence can still be heard in the music of today.

4. Louisiana's longest-serving governor, Edwin Edwards, was born on May 31, 1927. Edwards served four terms as governor between 1972 and 1996 and became known for his charisma and colorful personality.

5. May 31, 2008, was a tragic day in Louisiana history when Hurricane Gustav struck the state. The storm caused widespread damage and left many residents without power for days. Despite the devastation, the state came together to rebuild and recover in the aftermath of the storm.