1. On May 18, 1804, the Lewis and Clark Expedition set out from St. Charles, Missouri, on its journey to explore the western part of the continent. This expedition was important because it helped establish the United States' claim to the area and opened up trade opportunities with Native American tribes and other countries.
2. On May 18, 1877, the Missouri Pacific Railroad was completed, connecting St. Louis to Kansas City and other parts of the state. This helped spur economic growth and development throughout Missouri, as goods and people could be transported more efficiently and quickly.
3. May 18, 1929, saw the opening of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. This iconic monument, standing at 630 feet tall, has become a symbol of the city and a major tourist attraction in the state. It was designed by architect Eero Saarinen and commemorates the westward expansion of the United States.
4. In 1953, on May 18, a devastating tornado hit Waco, Missouri, killing 33 people and injuring hundreds more. This was the deadliest tornado in Missouri history at the time, and it caused significant damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure in the area.
5. On May 18, 2019, Missouri Governor Mike Parson signed a bill into law that made Missouri the first state to ban abortions after eight weeks of pregnancy. This controversial law faced immediate legal challenges, and it remains a hotly debated topic in Missouri and across the country.