Since becoming a state in 1861, Kansas has been a booming, history making (and changing) state. That being said, if you were born and raised in Kansas over the last 60 years, you will always remember:
1. The Great Flood of 1951.
The devastating flood, which took place during the summer of 1951, was the result of heavy rains overflowing Kansas rivers. The flood resulted in the loss of 17 lives, the displacement of 518,000 people, and damages of $935 million.
2. Dwight D. Eisenhower is the first elected president from Kansas (1953).
"Ike" hailed from Abilene and served two terms (1953-1961).
3. Brown v. Board of Education (1954).
The landmark Supreme Court case, which was filed against Topeka's Board of Education, ended the need for all forms of state-maintained racial separation.
4. Clutter Family Murders (1959).
The Sunflower State was rocked when the Clutter family was brutally murdered in Holcomb. Both Richard Eugene Hickock (pictured) and Perry Edward Smith were charged, convicted, and hanged for the murders, which inspired Truman Capote's "In Cold Blood."
5. Kansas celebrates its centennial (1961).
6. Miss Kansas is crowned Miss America (1966).
In 1966, Deborah Irene Bryant of Overland Park was the first ever Kansan to receive the Miss America title.
7. (Former) President Eisenhower dies (1969).
The entire country watched as former President Dwight D. Eisenhower was laid to rest in Abilene.
8. Kansas is recognized as having the most beautiful license plate design (1981).
...even with Alabama junk all over, it's still beautiful!
9. The Kansas Legislation approves both the Kansas Lottery and liquor by the drink (1987).
10. Senator Bob Dole runs as the Republican presidential nominee (1996).
The Russell native lost to challenging incumbent President Bill Clinton.
11. The City of Wichita rests easier after the capture and arrest of Dennis Rader (2005).
The notorious BTK Killer murdered 10 people between 1974 and 1991.
12. The City of Greensburg is devastated by an EF5 Torando (2007).
The monstrous tornado leveled 95% of the city and killed 11 people.
13. The Kansas City Chiefs beat the Denver Broncos 29-13 (2015).
We just wanted to end this post on a high note!
What are some of the moments in Kansas history that you will never forget? Tell us in the comments.
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