1. In 1877, the Constitution of Mississippi was adopted. This constitution established a new state government after the reconstruction period following the American Civil War. The document was the first in Mississippi's history to extend suffrage to all men regardless of race, but it also included provisions that sought to disenfranchise African Americans.

2. On October 9, 1936, the first televised presidential debate took place between incumbent President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Republican Governor Alf Landon of Kansas. The debate was broadcast via an experimental television station based in Jackson, Mississippi. The event was not well publicized, and few people actually witnessed it.

3. In 1962, James H. Meredith, a Black American, was able to attend the University of Mississippi, thanks to the ruling of the U.S. Supreme Court. On October 9 of that year, Meredith arrived on campus and attempted to enroll. This event was met with violent protests from white supremacists who opposed the desegregation of the university. The confrontation resulted in a federal intervention and numerous injuries.

4. Mississippi native and civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer was born on October 9, 1917. Hamer is known for her activism efforts, particularly in the area of voting rights. She helped organize the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party and spoke to the Democratic National Convention about the struggles of African Americans in the South.

5. On October 9, 1984, B.B. King was inducted into the Mississippi Musicians Hall of Fame. King, who was born in Indianola, Mississippi, was a renowned blues musician who used his talent to cross racial boundaries and promote understanding. He was a major influence on countless musicians and is considered one of the most influential guitarists of all time.