1. In 1973, the Mississippi Highway Safety Patrol faced allegations of abuse and discrimination towards African Americans. On October 10, members of the Congressional Black Caucus visited the state to investigate these claims and met with Governor Bill Waller and other officials.

2. The University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson opened its doors on October 10, 1955, as the only academic medical center in the state. Since then, it has become a leader in patient care, research, and education.

3. On October 10, 2014, Mississippi State University became the top-ranked football team in the country after defeating Auburn University. The team's success continued throughout the season, leading them to take part in the College Football Playoff for the first time in school history.

4. In 1962, civil rights leader James Meredith attempted to enroll in the all-white University of Mississippi, sparking a violent confrontation with segregationist protesters. After President Kennedy sent federal troops to the campus to restore order, Meredith was finally able to attend the school on October 10 of that year.

5. On October 10, 1817, Mississippi officially became the 20th state to join the Union. Its admission marked the beginning of a new era for the state, which had previously been a territory under Spanish, French, and British control.