Fact 1: Birth of Elvis Presley
January 8, 1935, marks the birthdate of the "King of Rock and Roll," Elvis Presley. He was born in Tupelo, Mississippi, and rose to fame as an iconic figure in the music industry. His hits include "Heartbreak Hotel," "Jailhouse Rock," and "Love Me Tender."
Fact 2: The White House Christmas Tree Deconstruction
As part of a longstanding tradition, the official Christmas tree at the White House is taken down on January 8. This has been done annually since the 19th century when Benjamin Harrison established this tradition.
Fact 3: Stephen Hawking’s Birthday
January 8, 1942, witnessed the birth of one of the most brilliant scientific minds of our time, Stephen Hawking. Hawking was an English theoretical physicist and cosmologist whose work on black holes, quantum mechanics, and relativity has shaped modern physics.
Fact 4: Magic Money Day in Japan
In Japan, January 8 is celebrated as "Magic Money Day" or "Daikoku." It’s a day where people pray for good fortune and prosperity in the new year. The celebrations often include throwing beans to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.
Fact 5: British Postage Stamp Debut
On January 8, 1839, British Parliament announced that the Penny Post system would be rolled out, marking the debut of the world’s first adhesive postage stamp, the "Penny Black."
Fact 6: Typing Day
Practicing typing skills has a day dedicated to it - January 8. Celebrated annually, World Typing Day, also known as International Typing Day, promotes speed, accuracy, and efficiency in written communication.
Fact 7: Galileo’s Discovery
January 8, 1610, was a significant day in space history. On this day, the famous astronomer Galileo Galilei discovered the first three moons of Jupiter: Io, Europa, and Ganymede.
Fact 8: The Battle of New Orleans Anniversary
Taking place on January 8, 1815, the Battle of New Orleans is regarded as the final conflict between the United States and Britain. This battle was a significant victory for America in the War of 1812.
Fact 9: Connecticut's Statehood
On January 8, 1788, Connecticut joined the United States as the fifth state. The state is known for its contributions to industrialization and for being home to Yale University.
Fact 10: The Launching of Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Commonwealth Bank of Australia was launched on January 8, 1912. It was established by the Commonwealth Bank Act as a commercial, savings, and exchange bank.
Fact 11: Betsy Ross’s Birthday
The renowned seamstress who is thought to have created the first American flag, Betsy Ross, was born on January 8, 1752. Despite some historical debate over the accuracy of her contribution, she remains a noteworthy historical figure.
Fact 12: Argyle Day
January 8 is known as Argyle Day, a nod to the popular pattern that originated from the tartan of Clan Campbell in Argyll, Scotland. Today, the argyle pattern is a fashion favourite used on clothes and accessories worldwide.
Fact 13: Bubble Bath Day
General knowledge trivia buffs would be excited to learn that there's a Bubble Bath Day celebrated each year on January 8. This fun holiday encourages relaxation and self-care.
Fact 14: Death of Galileo Galilei
In an interesting juxtaposition of cosmic events, Galileo Galilei, who discovered Jupiter's first three moons, died on January 8, 1642.
Fact 15: La Befana Celebrations in Italy
Italy celebrates La Befana, or Epiphany Eve, on January 8. According to Italian folklore, an old woman who visits children to fill their stockings with sweets and presents represents the holiday.
Fact 16: Commissioner’s Day in Korea
In Korea, January 8 is traditionally celebrated as Commissioner's Day. The day honours government officials and their commitment to public service.
Fact 17: Formation of March for Life
January 8 also marks the establishment of the March for Life. Formed in 1974 as a peaceful protest against the Supreme Court’s decision in the Roe vs. Wade case, the annual event has now grown into the world's largest pro-life demonstration.
Fact 18: Male Watcher’s Day
In a unique twist, January 8 is also known as Male Watcher's Day – a day where women have the go-ahead to appreciate the male form.
Fact 19: The First Woman to Swim the English Channel
On January 8, 1951, Florence Chadwick became the first woman to swim the icy waters of the English Channel from England to France. She did this in a remarkable 13 hours and 20 minutes.
Fact 20: Queen Elizabeth’s Christmas Broadcast Ends
In the UK, the British monarch's Christmas Broadcast, also known as the "Queen's Speech," ends its radio and television transmission on January 8. The speech is a tradition that dates back to King George V in 1932.