1. The Battle of Baton Rouge: On August 13, 1862, Confederate forces under General John C. Breckinridge launched an unsuccessful attack on Union forces occupying Baton Rouge. The battle resulted in over 800 casualties and was a significant setback for the Confederacy in Louisiana.

2. Louisiana becomes a state: On August 13, 1812, Louisiana was admitted as the 18th state in the Union. Previously, the territory had been part of the Louisiana Purchase, a vast swath of land acquired by the United States from France in 1803.

3. Louisiana's first female governor is elected: On August 13, 2003, Kathleen Blanco was elected as the first female governor of Louisiana. Blanco served as governor from 2004 to 2008 and was known for her leadership in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

4. Jazz legend Louis Armstrong is born: On August 13, 1901, jazz musician and composer Louis Armstrong was born in New Orleans. Armstrong is considered one of the most influential musicians in the history of jazz, and his legacy continues to be celebrated in New Orleans and around the world.

5. The Louisiana Hayride radio show debuts: On August 13, 1948, the first episode of the Louisiana Hayride radio show was broadcast from Shreveport. The show, which featured country and western music, became a launching pad for the careers of many musicians, including Elvis Presley.