1541 Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto established winter camp in Arkansas.
1682 La Salle reached Arkansas on his voyage down the Mississippi and claimed it for France.
1686 The first permanent white settlement was established at Arkansas post.
1721 That post was abandoned.
1803 Arkansas becomes part of the United States with the US executes the Louisiana purchase.
1819 Arkansas which had been part of Louisiana territory becomes a separate territory.
1821 The capital of Arkansas was moved to Little Rock.
1822 The first steamboat arrived at Little Rock on the Arkansas River.
1836 Arkansas was admitted to the Union as the 25th state.
1861 Arkansas seceded from the Union.
1862 The Battle of Pea Ridge was fought in Northwest Arkansas.
1863 Federal troops occupied Little Rock.
1868 Arkansas was readmitted to the Union.
1891 Jim Crow legislation segregates railroad coaches and other public accommodations.
1921 Oil is found near El Dorado.
1928 A law was passed outlawing the teaching of evolution in the classroom.
1957 Under orders from Governor Oval Faubus the Arkansas National Guard turns away nine black students when they attempt to desegregate the Little Rock High School. President Eisenhower calls in Federal troops to desegregate the school.