1. On May 30, 1896, the first recorded automobile accident in Mississippi occurred when a car hit a horse-drawn buggy in Vicksburg.

2. In 1953, Mississippi State University granted its first women's degrees, marking a significant step forward in the state's efforts to expand educational opportunities for all residents.

3. May 30, 1961, was the date of the first African American enrollment at the University of Mississippi, when James Meredith successfully registered for classes after a protracted legal battle.

4. In 1972, a massive tornado touched down in Tupelo, Mississippi, leaving a path of destruction that claimed 216 lives and caused millions of dollars in damage.

5. On May 30, 2011, Mississippi celebrated its bicentennial, marking 200 years of statehood since being admitted to the Union as the 20th U.S. state in 1817.