1. Louisiana Purchase: On January 26, 1803, the U.S. Senate approved the Louisiana Purchase, a significant milestone that expanded the country's territory by more than 800,000 square miles. The acquisition of the Louisiana Territory, which included present-day Louisiana, Arkansas, Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Kansas, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, and parts of Texas, New Mexico, and Louisiana was a turning point in American history.

2. Louisiana Constitution: On January 26, 1864, Louisiana adopted a new constitution. During the Civil War, Louisiana was under Union occupation, and the new constitution abolished slavery and established equal protection under the law for all citizens, including African Americans. It also granted African Americans the right to vote, making Louisiana the first state in the South to do so.

3. Louisiana State University: On January 26, 1860, Louisiana State University (LSU) was established as a land-grant institution, becoming the flagship university of the state. Today, LSU is a major public research university known for its academic programs, sports teams, and cultural offerings.

4. Hurricane Katrina: On January 26, 2006, New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin apologized for his handling of Hurricane Katrina, which devastated the city in August 2005. Nagin's apology came amid criticism from city residents and lawmakers who felt the response to the disaster was inadequate.

5. Louisiana Superdome: On January 26, 1986, the Louisiana Superdome hosted Super Bowl XX, where the Chicago Bears defeated the New England Patriots 46-10. The Superdome, which opened in 1975, has been the site of numerous major events, including Super Bowls, NCAA Final Four basketball tournaments, and concerts by major musical acts.