On This Day - September 8th
When you think of September 8th, what springs to mind? If it's not a day of specific celebration for you, it might seem like every other day. However, there are plenty of historical and cultural landmarks to consider today! If you're stuck for something to mark the day with, take a look through our facts, figures and stats.
On this day
The Battle of Kulikovo took place.
In 1380, the Battle of Kulikovo unfolded near what is now known as Tula Oblast in Russia – and on this date specifically, Moscow’s monarch, Dimitri, defeated the Mongols. The event launched at the end of the Tatars.
Michelangelo unveiled one of his masterpieces.
In 1504, Michelangelo unveiled the Statue of David in Florence. It remains one of the world's most famous pieces of art, with people coming from all over to witness it in person – and if you really know your Renaissance masters, you'll know that Michelangelo was perhaps just as famous for painting the Sistine Chapel!
Juan de Elcano completed his journey around the world.
In 1522, Spanish navigator Juan de Elcano finally returned to Spain. In so doing, he completed the first recorded circumnavigation of the globe – and at the time of writing, fewer than 250 people have ever managed to repeat the feat! It seems to be an adventurous jaunt that only the steeliest of folks are successful at… could you be the next?
The Iranian Army attacked Tehran.
In 1978, the Iranian army fired an attack on Khomeini’s followers in Tehran. The event killed hundreds of people, and many more were injured as a result.
Australia made an important move for climate change.
In 2022, the Australian government passed its first climate change legislation in over a decade! The legislation included the goal to cut emissions by at least 43% by 2030.
Special Days Falling on September 8th
If you would like to celebrate some things today, here are a few reasons why people are marking September 8th on their calendars.
International Literacy Day
Every September 8th, people all over the world celebrate World Literacy Day. The goal of the day is to raise awareness about literacy issues that exist around the world, and in many of our own communities. Literacy should be a right for all of us, and many associations exist to help as many people as possible to learn how to read and improve their reading and writing skills.
Our Lady of Meritxell Day
Every year on September 8th, Andorra comes together to celebrate the Day of Our Lady of Meritxell, which honors the statue of an apparition of the Virgin Mary, who’s also the Patron Saint of the country.
World Physical Therapy Day
Physical therapists around the world work tirelessly to improve the mobility and indeed the lives and people everywhere. And, every September 8th, we honor those physical therapists and, indeed, any chronic pain therapies that exist. If you’re behind on heading to a physiotherapist appointment, now’s a great reminder to get booked in and checked out!
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This page was last modified on August 31, 2023. Suggest an edit
This month in history
The Mayflower set sail for America! This famous sea voyage would take the Pilgrim Fathers from their port of Plymouth in Devon, England, toward what they referred to as the New World – all the way back in 1620. That said, this makes the US one of the youngest colonies on Earth.
Famous Birthdays on September 8th
If you were born on September 8th…
…you’re a Virgo! You are kind, strong, and determined. In many ways, you are the perfect leader. However, it is important to remember when you are being too critical of yourself and of those around you. You can be a bit of a perfectionist – so try and take time to kick back and breathe once in a while. You’re selfless and sensitive and love to solve problems. If that doesn’t answer all your star sign questions, you can earn more from our Virgo facts page!
