🗓️ On This Day - July 8th
The sun is out; what are you doing looking at a screen? You should be outside! Well, if you’re going to stay here, then you might as well learn more about what makes today such a special date! Here’s everything you need to know about July 8th!
On this day
Vasco da Gama took to the seas!
In 1497, Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama departed on his first-ever voyage! He became the first European to ever reach India by sea – and he no doubt inspired scores more explorers who followed in his sea-steps.
Japan opened its shores to Western influence.
In 1853, famed commodore Matthew C. Perry first sailed his frigate, the Susquehanna, directly into Tokyo Bay. In doing so, he brought Western trade to Japanese shores for the first time. However, we’re pretty sure they’ve cultivated their own culture fairly well over the years all the same!
The Voyager 2 took an incredible photograph!
In 1979, the Voyager 2 Spacecraft took a photo of Jupiter's satellite Adrastea (J14). It was the first photo of the satellite – an incredible feat going as far back as the late 70s! Since that time, space photography has only advanced – we now know what a black hole looks like, for example!
They told us what they really really wanted!
In 1996, the British girl group, the Spice Girls, released their debut single. It was, of course, one of their biggest hits of all time, "Wannabe." To this day, while they're not together as a band, the Spice Girls remain icons of British pop culture from the period – and "Wannabe" is arguably their best-known transatlantic hit.
Successor takes the North Korean hot seat
On July 8, 1994, Kim Jong-il assumed the role of Supreme Leader of North Korea, succeeding his father, Kim Il-sung. This marked a significant transition in the leadership of the secretive and isolated nation. Under his rule, Kim Jong-il continued his father's policy of strict control, cultivating a cult of personality and pursuing a nuclear weapons program.
Special Days Falling on July 8th
July is the perfect time to celebrate anything, thanks to great weather and vacation vibes. So, you’ll be happy to know that there are, in fact, plenty of things to celebrate today – here’s our picks of interesting holidays and occasions July 8th has to show for itself.
National Freezer Pop Day
Nothing tastes better on a hot day than a flavorsome ice pop! Many of us used to love them as kids, and the truth is that, even as adults, these cold treats still hit the spot! And, as it is the freezer pop’s special day, it’s more than time for us to all embrace a little bit of brain freeze!
National Chocolate with Almonds Day
In many ways, chocolate alone can be snack perfection – but have you ever tried it with nuts? There really is a special day for absolutely everything, and if you’re nuts about nuts (specifically almonds), July 8th is the best time to chow down.
National Video Game Day
Video games have come a long way since their humble beginnings – it’s no longer just a hobby, it’s a lifestyle, and even a living for some people! If you have any favorite games, or you’ve been putting off finishing Zelda long enough, today’s the day to break out your console and set aside some time for thumb-blistering action.
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This page was last modified on July 26, 2023. Suggest an edit
This month in history
The American flag got yet another star! In 1960, a 50th star was added to the American flag. It was, of course, added to represent the nation’s new state, the state of Hawaii. It was the last star added to the flag!
Famous Birthdays on July 8th
If you were born on July 8th…
…you’re a Cancer! You’re a very protective and intuitive person. You can read those around you like a book! That makes you a great friend and partner to have. But there’s so much more to you! Find out more from our Cancer facts page!
