September 8 has witnessed several interesting historical events. On this day, pivotal moments shaped history worldwide: Michelangelo's Statue of David unveiling (1504), Juan de Elcano's first global circumnavigation completion (1522), and "Star Trek" debut (1966). Also notable are Napoleon's Battle of Bassano victory (1796), Lincoln's famous speech (1858), and Ford's controversial Nixon pardon (1974). Check out the major events that took place on September 8 and level up your history game!
1504: Statue of David Unveiled
On this day in 1504, the renowned Italian artist Michelangelo unveiled his masterpiece, the Statue of David, in the city of Florence.
1522: Historic Expedition Completed
Spanish navigator Juan de Elcano completed the first circumnavigation of the globe on this day in 1522, marking a significant achievement in maritime history originally initiated under Ferdinand Magellan's leadership.
1628: Victory in the Bay of Matanzas
In 1628, Dutch privateer Piet Heyn captured the Spanish silver fleet in the Bay of Matanzas, Cuba, achieving a major victory.
1796: Napoleon's Triumph at the Battle of Bassano
During the French Revolutionary Wars in 1796, Napoleon Bonaparte's French army won the Battle of Bassano against Austrian forces, a notable victory for the French military leader.
1858: Lincoln's Notable Utterance
On this day in 1858, Abraham Lincoln delivered a speech famous for his quote, "You may fool all the people some of the time; you can even fool some of the people all the time; but you can’t fool all of the people all the time."
1916: Wilson's Tax Legislation
In 1916, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson signed the Emergency Revenue Act, which doubled the rate of income tax and introduced inheritance and munitions profits tax.
1966: Star Trek Debuts on Television
The iconic science fiction series "Star Trek" made its television debut on September 8, 1966. Created by Gene Roddenberry, the show followed the adventures of the USS Enterprise, commanded by Captain James T. Kirk, alongside Science Officer Spock and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Leonard McCoy. The first episode, "The Man Trap," aired on NBC, starting a cultural phenomenon.
1974: President Ford Pardons Nixon
On this day in 1974, U.S. President Gerald R. Ford issued Proclamation 4311, granting a full pardon to his predecessor, Richard Nixon, for any crimes committed during his presidency. Nixon had resigned in August 1974 amidst the Watergate scandal, making him the only U.S. president to do so. The pardon was controversial and impacted Ford's later political career.
1986: Oprah Winfrey Show Airs for the First Time
The "Oprah Winfrey Show," a hugely influential daytime talk show, premiered its first episode on September 8, 1986. Hosted and produced by Oprah Winfrey, the show ran for 25 years and won over 45 Daytime Emmy Awards. The debut episode, "How to Marry the Man or Woman of Your Choice," hinted at the personal and societal issues that would make the show a cultural phenomenon.
1991: Republic of Macedonia Declares Independence
On this day in 1991, the Republic of Macedonia declared independence from Yugoslavia following a referendum where 96% of voters supported independence. This marked the beginning of Macedonia's journey as a sovereign state during the breakup of Yugoslavia.
2015: The Late Show with Stephen Colbert Premieres
Stephen Colbert, known for his sharp wit and comedic talent, debuted as the host of "The Late Show" on CBS on this day in 2015. Previously a correspondent on "The Daily Show" and host of "The Colbert Report" on Comedy Central, Colbert succeeded David Letterman. His first show featured interviews with then-presidential hopeful Jeb Bush and acclaimed actor George Clooney, setting the stage for his tenure by blending humour with insightful political commentary.