1. Louisiana became a state on February 9, 1812. It was the 18th state to join the Union.

2. On February 9, 1960, New Orleans became the first city in the South to desegregate public schools. Ruby Bridges, a six-year-old African American girl, was escorted by federal marshals to attend an all-white school.

3. February 9, 1995, marked the beginning of the trial for the O.J. Simpson case. The trial gained significant media attention and lasted for over eight months.

4. Louisiana's first Mardi Gras parade was held in New Orleans on February 9, 1857. Today, Mardi Gras is a popular celebration across Louisiana, known for its vibrant parades and parties.

5. On February 9, 1917, the USS Louisiana, a battleship named after the state, was commissioned into the United States Navy. The ship served in both World War I and World War II before being decommissioned in 1947.