1. In 1820, Missouri became the 24th state to join the union. The state's admittance was controversial at the time due to the ongoing debate over whether it would be a free or slave state.

2. On October 21, 1861, the Battle of Fredericktown took place during the American Civil War. The Union army emerged victorious in this battle, which helped secure Missouri's status as a Union state.

3. Jesse James, notorious outlaw and leader of the James-Younger Gang, was born on October 21, 1847, in Clay County, Missouri. James' criminal legacy is still remembered and celebrated in Missouri today, with several museums and historic sites dedicated to his life and crimes.

4. On this day in 1917, the St. Louis Cardinals won their first World Series title. They defeated the Boston Red Sox in six games, with Cardinals pitcher Grover Cleveland Alexander delivering a stunning shutout performance in Game 6.

5. In 1967, the Ozark National Scenic Riverways was established, making it the first national park system to protect a river system. It encompasses 134 miles of the Current and Jacks Fork rivers in southern Missouri, offering visitors stunning views of limestone bluffs, clear water springs, and unique wildlife.