On this day, October 8 - Know what happened today in history

October 8 marks several pivotal moments in world history, from remarkable achievements in sports and medical advancements to the outbreak of wars and devastating natural disasters. Each event has shaped the course of history in its own unique way.

1956: A Perfect Game in Baseball’s World Series

On this day, Don Larsen of the New York Yankees pitched the first-ever perfect game in Major League Baseball's World Series history. Facing the Brooklyn Dodgers, Larsen delivered a flawless performance, allowing no hits, runs, or errors – a feat yet to be repeated in the World Series.

1948: World’s First Internal Pacemaker Implant

In a groundbreaking moment for medical science, Arne Larsson, a 43-year-old man, became the first person to receive an internal pacemaker. Although the device worked for only a few hours, Larsson survived until the age of 86, passing away in 2001. This event paved the way for advancements in life-saving cardiac technology.

1919: The First Transcontinental Air Race

Sixty-three aircraft, 15 from San Francisco and 48 from New York, participated in the world’s first transcontinental air race. Lieutenant Belvin Maynard emerged victorious, completing the gruelling 5,400-mile round-trip in just over three days. This race marked a new era in aviation and its potential for long-distance travel.

1912: First Balkan War Begins

The conflict that would reshape southeastern Europe began on this day, with Montenegro declaring war on the Ottoman Empire. Greece, Bulgaria, and Serbia soon joined the fray, forming the Balkan League. The war, which lasted seven months, saw the Balkan League emerge victorious. However, disagreements over territorial spoils soon sparked the Second Balkan War.

1871: The Great Chicago Fire Erupts

The infamous Great Chicago Fire ignited in a barn on this day, quickly spreading and devastating the city’s business district. Fuelled by dry summer conditions, the fire raged for two days, killing over 300 people and causing extensive property damage. This disaster highlighted the vulnerability of rapidly growing urban centres.

Notable Births on October 8:

• 1985: Bruno Mars, talented singer-songwriter, producer, actor
• 1970: Matt Damon, acclaimed actor, screenwriter, producer
• 1943: Chevy Chase, renowned comedian, actor
• 1939: Harvey Pekar, American author known for his work
• 1895: Juan Perón, influential military officer, 29th President of Argentina

Notable Deaths on October 8:

• 1992: Willy Brandt, visionary German politician, Nobel laureate
• 1967: Clement Attlee, respected Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
• 1936: Premchand, celebrated Indian author
• 1869: Franklin Pierce, 14th President of the United States
• 1793: John Hancock, prominent American politician, 1st Governor of Massachusetts