1. On April 17, 1961, the first African-American student was admitted to the University of Arkansas School of Law. Silas Hunt had to sue the university after being denied admission due to his race. His admission broke the color barrier at the law school and paved the way for other African-American students to attend.

2. On April 17, 1802, the Arkansas Territory was created by Congress. The territory encompassed the land west of the Mississippi River that was not part of the Louisiana Purchase. The capital of the territory was initially located in Arkansas Post before moving to Little Rock in 1821.

3. On April 17, 1861, a Confederate army under the command of General Sterling Price captured the federal arsenal at Little Rock. The arsenal contained weapons, ammunition, and supplies that were used by Confederate forces throughout the Civil War. The capture of the arsenal helped solidify Confederate control over the state.

4. On April 17, 1889, the first Arkansas State Fair was held in Hot Springs. The fair featured agricultural exhibits, livestock shows, and other attractions. The fair has since become an annual tradition in Arkansas and draws thousands of visitors each year.

5. On April 17, 2014, a deadly tornado outbreak struck central Arkansas. The storms killed 16 people and destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses. The tornadoes were part of a larger outbreak that affected several states in the southern United States.