January 8 in History: Famous Births, Events, and Deaths

January 8th has witnessed significant historical events, including the birth of influential figures and key milestones in politics and culture. Notably, it is the birthday of famous personalities like Elvis Presley, the legendary American singer. Throughout history, January 8th has also marked important events that shaped nations and inspired generations.

Famous People Born on January 8th

1935 - Elvis Presley : Legendary American singer and actor, known as the "King of Rock and Roll."

1947 - David Bowie : Iconic British singer, songwriter, and actor, influential in music and fashion.

1960 - Dave Weckl : Renowned American jazz fusion drummer.

1984 - Kim Jong-un : Supreme Leader of North Korea.

1986 - Colin Morgan : Northern Irish actor, best known for his role in "Merlin."

1967 - R. Kelly : American singer, songwriter, and record producer.

1992 - Charli XCX : English singer and songwriter, known for pop hits and collaborations.

1942 - Stephen Hawking : Renowned British theoretical physicist and cosmologist.

1978 - Anthony Jeselnik : American comedian and writer, known for dark humor.

2004 - Kaitlyn Maher : American singer and "America's Got Talent" finalist.

1950 - David “Kid” Jensen : British radio DJ, influential in pop culture.

1745 - Jean-Baptiste Pointe du Sable : Founder of Chicago, Illinois.

1990 - Fredo Santana : American rapper, part of Chicago drill scene.

1979 - Andrew W.K. : American rock musician and motivational speaker.

1963 - Hideo Kojima : Japanese video game designer, creator of Metal Gear series.

1922 - Norman Lear : American television writer and producer, created famous sitcoms.

Famous Events on January 8th

1815 : The Battle of New Orleans took place, marking the final major battle of the War of 1812 between the United States and the United Kingdom.

1835 : Richard Lawrence attempted the first assassination of a sitting U.S. president, targeting Andrew Jackson.

1918 : U.S. President Woodrow Wilson delivered his famous "Fourteen Points" speech outlining his vision for post-World War I peace.

1935 : Elvis Presley, the "King of Rock and Roll," was born in Tupelo, Mississippi.

1942 : The first launch of a U.S. Army Air Forces B-17 bomber took place from Langley Field, Virginia.

1959 : Charles de Gaulle became the first president of the Fifth French Republic.

1982 : John Hinckley Jr. was found not guilty by reason of insanity for the attempted assassination of U.S. President Ronald Reagan.

2011 : The protests in Tunisia known as the Jasmine Revolution continued, influencing the Arab Spring across the Middle East.

Famous People Who Died on January 8th

1977 - Elvis Presley : Legendary American singer and actor, known as the "King of Rock and Roll."

1968 - Ferdinand Cheval : French postman famous for building the Palais Idéal, a remarkable example of naïve architecture.

1820 - George III : King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, known for his long reign and mental illness.

1912 - James Lane Allen : American novelist known for works depicting life in Kentucky.

2007 - Luciano Pavarotti : World-famous Italian operatic tenor, celebrated for his powerful voice and performances.

1946 - Louisa May Alcott : American novelist best known for "Little Women."

1982 - John Belushi : American comedian and actor, famous for "Saturday Night Live" and "The Blues Brothers."

January 8th is a day marked by remarkable events, influential births, and notable passings throughout history. From the birth of cultural icons like Elvis Presley and David Bowie to pivotal historical moments such as the Battle of New Orleans, this date reflects a rich tapestry of human achievement and impact. It serves as a reminder of the individuals and events that have shaped our world, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to remember.