1. Louisiana became the 18th state to enter the Union on April 30, 1812, but it wasn't until July 8 of the same year that President James Madison officially signed the act making Louisiana a state. This day is now celebrated as Louisiana Statehood Day.

2. On July 8, 1861, during the American Civil War, the city of New Orleans fell to Union forces led by Commodore David Farragut. The Confederate army had abandoned the city, leaving it vulnerable to attack.

3. Louisiana has a rich music tradition, and July 8 marks the birthday of famous jazz musician Louis Armstrong. Born in 1901 in New Orleans, Armstrong went on to become one of the most influential and beloved musicians of the 20th century.

4. On July 8, 1948, the Louisiana State Capitol building in Baton Rouge was dedicated. At 450 feet tall, it is the tallest capitol building in the United States and is known for its Art Deco design.

5. In 1987, the first Zydeco Festival was held in Opelousas, Louisiana on July 8. Zydeco is a style of music that originated in the Creole and Cajun communities of Louisiana and is characterized by its use of the accordion and the rubboard. Today, the festival is a celebration of all things Zydeco and attracts thousands of visitors each year.