On October 20, the following notable historical events related to Missouri occurred:

• 1806: The Lewis and Clark Expedition, having returned to St. Louis in late September, continued to be celebrated on or around October 20, with local festivities in St. Louis honoring their exploration of the Louisiana Purchase, reinforcing Missouri’s role as a western hub.
• 1856: During the “Bleeding Kansas” conflict, pro-slavery “Border Ruffians” from Missouri were active on or around October 20, crossing into Kansas to disrupt anti-slavery efforts, escalating violence and highlighting Missouri’s role in the slavery debate.
• 1864: During the Civil War, Confederate forces under General Sterling Price were engaged in Price’s Raid in Missouri. On or around October 20, they clashed with Union forces in skirmishes near Independence, as part of their ongoing campaign in the state.
• 1888: The Missouri Pacific Railroad expanded its network through southeast Missouri around October 20, connecting Cape Girardeau to other regions and boosting the state’s economic infrastructure.
• 1933: The Great Depression impacted Missouri, and on or around October 20, New Deal-funded Works Progress Administration projects in St. Louis began constructing public infrastructure, providing jobs and economic relief.
• 2004: The St. Louis Cardinals played a significant playoff game against the Houston Astros on October 20 in the National League Championship Series, with Albert Pujols hitting a key home run, helping the Cardinals advance to the World Series and reinforcing Missouri’s baseball legacy.