1. In 1856, the "Wakarusa War" began in Kansas, with tensions between pro-slavery and anti-slavery forces leading to a standoff near Lawrence, Kansas. This conflict was one of many that foreshadowed the outbreak of the American Civil War.

2. On May 21, 1919, a massive tornado struck the city of Garden City, Kansas. The tornado caused extensive damage and resulted in 17 deaths and over 100 injuries.

3. In 2011, a devastating wildfire swept across Kansas, burning more than 1,000 square miles of land and destroying numerous homes and businesses. The fire was one of the largest in Kansas history and was fueled by strong winds and drought conditions.

4. On May 21, 1971, astronaut Alan Shepard returned to Earth after becoming the first American to travel into space 10 years prior. Shepard was born in East Derry, New Hampshire, but spent much of his later life in Wichita, Kansas.

5. In 1864, Confederate forces under General Sterling Price clashed with Union troops in the Battle of White River in Kansas. The battle, which took place near the town of DeValls Bluff, resulted in a decisive Union victory and helped to secure Kansas as a free state during the Civil War.