1. Mississippi was the 20th state to join the Union, on December 10, 1817, but the Fourth of July was not recognized as a holiday until much later. In fact, it wasn't until 1972 that Mississippi declared the Fourth of July a legal holiday.

2. Mississippi was deeply divided during the Civil War, with many residents supporting the Union and others supporting the Confederacy. However, on July 4, 1863, Confederate troops found reason to celebrate when they were victorious at the Siege of Vicksburg. This significant battle helped the Confederacy maintain control of the Mississippi River, a vital supply line.

3. The small town of Redwood, Mississippi holds an Independence Day celebration every year that has become a popular event in the state. The festivities include a parade, fireworks, live music, and plenty of food and drink. The town has been hosting this event for over 100 years.

4. July 4, 1964 was a historic day for civil rights in Mississippi. The Civil Rights Act had just been signed into law, and, in a move that shocked many segregationists, Mississippi Governor Paul Johnson Jr. announced that the state would comply with the new law. Johnson had been a vocal opponent of civil rights legislation, but he ultimately put the good of the state first.

5. Mississippi has a rich musical history, and the Fourth of July has been the setting for many memorable performances. In 1996, Mississippi native and legendary blues guitarist B.B. King headlined the "Fourth on the River" celebration in Natchez, Mississippi. The event drew thousands of fans and showcased Mississippi's important contribution to American music.