1. In 1861, the Tennessee state legislature voted to secede from the United States and join the Confederacy. This decision was controversial within the state and led to the creation of a Unionist government in eastern Tennessee.

2. In 1929, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) was established to provide flood control, navigation, and electricity generation in the Tennessee River Valley. The TVA had a major impact on the region's economy and environment, but also faced criticism for displacing people and altering natural landscapes.

3. In 1958, a passenger train traveling from New Orleans to New York derailed in Harriman, Tennessee, killing 27 people and injuring dozens more. The accident was caused by a faulty switch on the tracks, and led to increased safety regulations for the railroad industry.

4. In 1977, the famous country music singer Dolly Parton opened Dollywood, a theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The park has since become one of the state's top tourist attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year.

5. In 1994, the Tennessee Titans (then known as the Houston Oilers) played their first game in the state after relocating from Texas. The team has played home games in Nashville ever since and reached the Super Bowl in 2000.