1. Louisiana became a state: On March 2, 1812, Louisiana officially became the 18th state in the United States. It had previously been a part of the Louisiana Territory, which was purchased by the United States from France in 1803.

2. Battle of New Orleans: On March 2, 1815, the Battle of New Orleans ended, with American forces led by Andrew Jackson defeating the British in the final battle of the War of 1812. This victory boosted American morale and helped solidify the country's identity.

3. Mardi Gras: March 2 is often celebrated as the "official" start of Mardi Gras season in Louisiana. While the actual date of Mardi Gras varies from year to year, the season traditionally begins on January 6, and culminates on Fat Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday.

4. Louisiana Purchase Exposition: On March 2, 1904, the Louisiana Purchase Exposition officially opened in St. Louis, Missouri. The fair celebrated the centennial of the Louisiana Purchase, and featured exhibits from across the United States, as well as from many other countries.

5. Huey P. Long's birthday: Huey P. Long, one of Louisiana's most famous politicians, was born on March 2, 1893. Long served as governor of Louisiana from 1928 to 1932, and as a United States senator from 1932 until his assassination in 1935. Long's legacy is still felt in Louisiana politics today.