1. In 1762, Louisiana was officially transferred from France to Spain by the Treaty of Fontainebleau. This would have significant implications for the state's history, especially as it relates to the cultural influences that are still present today.

2. On October 18, 1812, the Battle of Lake Borgne took place during the War of 1812. It was a naval skirmish between American and British forces that ultimately ended in a British victory.

3. In 1867, the New Orleans Metropolitan Police Force was established. It was the first modern police department in the United States, and would come to influence the way law enforcement is structured and managed in the country as a whole.

4. On October 18, 1906, the "Louisiana Lottery Scandal" came to a close when the last Louisiana State Lottery drawing was held. The scandal had been ongoing for years, involving allegations of bribery and corruption at the state level.

5. Finally, in 1927, New Orleans native Mahalia Jackson was born. Jackson is widely considered one of the most influential gospel singers of all time, and her music continues to inspire people around the world to this day.