1. In 1871, the University of Arkansas officially opened its doors. It was the first public university in the state and initially had only one building that served as classrooms, dormitories, and administrative offices.

2. On October 4, 1890, the Arkansas State Fair Association was founded in Little Rock. The first state fair took place the following year and continues to be held annually to showcase agriculture, livestock, rides, and entertainment.

3. In 1913, construction began on the Arkansas State Capitol building in Little Rock. The building, which cost nearly $2.2 million to build, was designed in the neoclassical architectural style and was completed and dedicated on April 10, 1916.

4. On October 4, 1971, the Ozark National Forest was established in northwest Arkansas. The forest covers over 1 million acres and is home to scenic drives, recreational activities, and diverse wildlife.

5. In 1980, Governor Bill Clinton declared October 4 as "Breast Cancer Awareness Day" in Arkansas. The proclamation aimed to increase public awareness of the disease and encourage women to get regular mammograms and perform self-examinations. Today, a national campaign known as "Breast Cancer Awareness Month" is observed every October to raise awareness and funds for research.