History is a treasure trove of fascinating events, and December 8 has its fair share of remarkable moments that shaped the world. From groundbreaking discoveries to pivotal political decisions and cultural milestones, this date offers a glimpse into the stories that define our shared past. Join us as we journey through the highlights of December 8, uncovering the major historical events that left a lasting imprint on history.
Major Historical Events on December 8- Today in History
- Mary, Queen of Scots’ Early Ascension – 1542
- Proclamation of the Immaculate Conception Doctrine – 1854
- Birth of Muralist Diego Rivera – 1886
- Death of Philosopher Herbert Spencer – 1903
- U.S. Declares War on Japan – 1941
- Premiere of ‘The Deer Hunter’ – 1978
- Assassination of John Lennon – 1980
- Establishment of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) – 1985
- Signing of the INF Treaty – 1987
- Formation of the Commonwealth of Independent States – 1991
- Retirement of Soccer Icon Mia Hamm – 2004
- SpaceX’s Milestone with Dragon Capsule – 2010
- Passing of Astronaut John Glenn – 2016
- Death of Puppeteer Caroll Spinney – 2019
- Release of Basketball Player Brittney Griner – 2022
Mary, Queen of Scots’ Early Ascension – 1542
Mary, Queen of Scots, was born on December 8, 1542, at Linlithgow Palace. Just six days later, she became queen following her father’s death. Her reign was fraught with political turmoil, ultimately leading to her execution in 1587.
Proclamation of the Immaculate Conception Doctrine – 1854
On December 8, 1854, Pope Pius IX proclaimed the doctrine of the Immaculate Conception. This defined the belief that the Virgin Mary was free from original sin from the moment of her conception, a foundational tenet of Catholic Mariology.
Birth of Muralist Diego Rivera – 1886
Diego Rivera, born on December 8, 1886, in Guanajuato, Mexico, revitalized fresco painting in Latin America with his vivid murals. His works, often focused on Mexican culture and social issues, made him one of the most influential artists of his time.
Death of Philosopher Herbert Spencer – 1903
English sociologist Herbert Spencer, who coined the term “survival of the fittest” in his groundbreaking 1864 work, died on December 8, 1903. His ideas significantly influenced the development of social Darwinism and philosophical thought.
U.S. Declares War on Japan – 1941
Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, the United States declared war on Japan on December 8, 1941, officially entering World War II.
Premiere of ‘The Deer Hunter’ – 1978
“The Deer Hunter,” a powerful film exploring the Vietnam War’s devastating effects on American soldiers, premiered on December 8, 1978. The film, starring Robert De Niro and Christopher Walken, won the Oscar for Best Picture.
Assassination of John Lennon – 1980
John Lennon, the legendary British musician and former Beatle, was fatally shot on December 8, 1980, in New York City by Mark David Chapman. His tragic death sparked a global outpouring of grief and cemented his enduring legacy.
Establishment of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) – 1985
On December 8, 1985, seven South Asian nations formed SAARC to promote economic and regional integration, enhancing cooperation among member countries.
Signing of the INF Treaty – 1987
On December 8, 1987, U.S. President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev signed the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty. This landmark agreement marked a significant step toward nuclear disarmament during the Cold War.
Formation of the Commonwealth of Independent States – 1991
Leaders of Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus signed an agreement on December 8, 1991, establishing the Commonwealth of Independent States. This pact marked the official dissolution of the Soviet Union and reshaped the geopolitical landscape.
Retirement of Soccer Icon Mia Hamm – 2004
On December 8, 2004, Mia Hamm, one of the most iconic figures in women’s soccer, retired from the sport. At the time of her retirement, she was the leading international goal scorer, leaving a legacy that inspired countless athletes worldwide.
SpaceX’s Milestone with Dragon Capsule – 2010
On December 8, 2010, SpaceX achieved a groundbreaking feat as its Dragon capsule became the first commercial spacecraft to enter orbit and return safely to Earth. This milestone heralded a new era of private space exploration.
Passing of Astronaut John Glenn – 2016
John Glenn, the first American astronaut to orbit Earth in 1962 and a former U.S. senator, passed away on December 8, 2016, at age 95. Regarded as a national hero, his contributions to space exploration and public service remain unparalleled.
Death of Puppeteer Caroll Spinney – 2019
Caroll Spinney, the beloved puppeteer behind Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch on Sesame Street, died on December 8, 2019, at age 85. His nearly 50-year career shaped the childhoods of generations with his memorable characters.
Release of Basketball Player Brittney Griner – 2022
On December 8, 2022, Brittney Griner was released from a Russian penal colony after months of politically charged imprisonment. Her release highlighted the complexities of international diplomacy and her global prominence as an athlete.
Also Read: Major Historical Events on December 7- Today in History
