1. Alabama joined the Confederacy on August 15, 1861
On this day, Alabama officially seceded from the United States and became the fourth state to join the Confederate States of America, following South Carolina, Mississippi, and Florida.

2. The Alabama State Capitol was dedicated on August 15, 1851
The Alabama State Capitol, located in Montgomery, was dedicated on August 15, 1851. The building served as the seat of government for the state of Alabama until 1985, when a new building was constructed.

3. Alabama's first state fair was held on August 15, 1853
On August 15, 1853, the first Alabama State Fair was held in Montgomery. The fair was a celebration of the state's agriculture and featured exhibits of farm equipment, livestock shows, and competitions.

4. Alabama's first automobile race was held on August 15, 1904
On August 15, 1904, the first automobile race in Alabama was held in Birmingham. The race, which was organized by the Birmingham Automobile Club, featured 10 cars and was won by Robert Scott in a Winton touring car.

5. The Tuskegee Airmen were activated on August 15, 1941
On August 15, 1941, the Tuskegee Airmen, the first African American military aviators in the United States Armed Forces, were activated at the Tuskegee Army Air Field in Tuskegee, Alabama. The Airmen went on to serve with distinction in World War II, completing over 15,000 sorties and earning numerous commendations.