1. Birth of Purdue University: On March 26, 1869, Purdue University was established in West Lafayette, Indiana. The university was founded as a land-grant institution under the Morrill Act, which provided federal funding to establish colleges to teach agricultural and mechanical arts.

2. Birth of James Dean: One of Hollywood's most iconic actors, James Dean was born on March 26, 1931, in Marion, Indiana. Although his career was cut short by his untimely death in a car accident in 1955, Dean remains a cultural icon and symbol of rebellious youth.

3. Statehood Day: March 26 is celebrated as Statehood Day in Indiana, commemorating the state's admission to the Union on this day in 1816. As part of the bicentennial celebration in 2016, several special events were held across the state to mark the occasion.

4. Hoosier Dome Opens: On March 26, 1984, the Hoosier Dome (now known as the RCA Dome) opened in downtown Indianapolis. The massive venue, which seated over 60,000 spectators, served as the home of the Indianapolis Colts for over two decades before being demolished in 2008.

5. Indiana Pacers Formed: On March 26, 1967, the Indiana Pacers were formed as a charter member of the American Basketball Association (ABA). Although the team initially struggled, they went on to win three ABA championships before being absorbed into the NBA in 1976.