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February 8 Remembrance – Top 10 Events, Celebrated Births & Historical Passings |
Tracker brings you Today
in History – Explore top historical events, famous birthdays, notable deaths,
and FAQs from this day........
1587 – Execution of Mary, Queen of Scots
On February 8, 1587, Mary, Queen of Scots, was executed at Fotheringhay Castle in England after being implicated in a plot to assassinate her cousin, Queen Elizabeth I. This event remains a pivotal moment in British history, highlighting the intense political and religious conflicts of the era.
1910 – Incorporation of the Boy Scouts of America
February 8, 1910, marks the official incorporation of the Boy Scouts of America. This organization aimed to promote outdoor skills, citizenship, and moral values among young boys, eventually becoming one of the largest youth organizations in the United States.
1918 – Launch of 'The Stars and Stripes' Newspaper
On February 8, 1918, the first issue of 'The Stars and Stripes' newspaper was published, serving as a morale booster for American troops during World War I. It provided news from home and the front lines, becoming an enduring symbol of military journalism .
1918 – Soviet Forces Occupy Kyiv
During the Soviet-Ukrainian War, Soviet forces occupied Kyiv on February 8, 1918, forcing the Ukrainian government to relocate. This occupation was a significant event in the tumultuous post-revolutionary period in Eastern Europe .
1960 – First Stars Added to the Hollywood Walk of Fame
February 8, 1960, saw the addition of the first eight stars to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, honoring notable figures in the entertainment industry. This initiative aimed to maintain the glamour of Hollywood and recognize contributions to the arts .
1968 – The Orangeburg Massacre
On February 8, 1968, in Orangeburg, South Carolina, three African American students were killed, and 28 others wounded when state troopers opened fire during a protest against a segregated bowling alley. This tragic event highlighted the ongoing struggle for civil rights in the United States .
1971 – NASDAQ Begins Trading
February 8, 1971, marks the first day of trading for NASDAQ, the world's first electronic stock exchange. This innovation revolutionized the financial industry, paving the way for modern electronic trading systems .
1983 – Death of Eubie Blake
Renowned American composer and pianist Eubie Blake passed away on February 8, 1983. Known for his contributions to ragtime and early jazz, Blake's work significantly influenced American music and culture.
9. 2005 – Death of Jimmy Smith
On February 8, 2005, jazz musician Jimmy Smith, celebrated for popularizing the Hammond B-3 electric organ in jazz, passed away. His innovative style bridged jazz and soul, leaving a lasting legacy in music history.
2025 – Observance of Propose Day
In the context of Valentine's Week, February 8 is celebrated as Propose Day in many cultures. It's a day when individuals express their love and propose to their significant others, making it a special occasion for many couples.
February 8 Famous Birthdays
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Jules Verne (1828) – Legendary French novelist, author of Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea.
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James Dean (1931) – Iconic American actor known for Rebel Without a Cause.
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John Williams (1932) – Renowned American film composer (Star Wars, Harry Potter).
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Gary Coleman (1968) – American actor best known for the TV show Diff’rent Strokes.
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Bethany Hamilton (1990) – American surfer and shark attack survivor, motivational speaker.
February 8 Notable Deaths
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Peter the Great (1725) – Tsar of Russia, known for modernizing and expanding the Russian Empire.
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Eubie Blake (1983) – Influential American ragtime composer and pianist.
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Jimmy Smith (2005) – American jazz musician known for popularizing the Hammond organ.
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Anna Nicole Smith (2007) – American model and TV personality, died at 39.
