On November 17, 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 November 17, 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 November 17, crossing into Kansas to disrupt anti-slavery efforts, escalating violence and highlighting Missouri’s role in the slavery debate.
• 1861: During the Civil War, Missouri remained a battleground. On or around November 17, Union forces under General Henry W. Halleck were reorganizing in St. Louis to consolidate Union control, while Confederate guerrilla operations continued to challenge stability in the state.
• 1888: The Missouri Pacific Railroad expanded its network through southeast Missouri around November 17, connecting Cape Girardeau to other regions and boosting the state’s economic infrastructure.
• 1929: The Great Depression deepened in Missouri. On or around November 17, businesses in Kansas City faced increasing financial difficulties, reflecting the state’s growing economic crisis.
• 2004: The St. Louis Cardinals held a season-end fan appreciation event in St. Louis on or around November 17, following their World Series loss to the Boston Red Sox, honoring Albert Pujols and the team’s strong performance, reinforcing Missouri’s baseball legacy.