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

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May 8 holds a significant place in world history for marking the end of World War II in Europe with Victory in Europe Day, celebrating the Allied triumph over Nazi Germany in 1945. Throughout history, this date has witnessed major political, cultural, and scientific milestones that shaped nations and inspired generations. Many influential figures in art, politics, and science were born or passed away on this day, making it a moment of remembrance and recognition across the world.

Famous People Born on May 8

  • 1884: Harry S. Truman, 33rd President of the United States
  • 1926: David Attenborough, British naturalist and broadcaster
  • 1975: Enrique Iglesias, Spanish singer and songwriter
  • 1964: Melissa Gilbert, American actress and director
  • 1963: Michel Gondry, French film director and screenwriter
  • 1926: Don Rickles, American comedian and actor
  • 1944: Gary Glitter, English glam rock singer
  • 1920: Tom of Finland, Finnish artist known for his stylized homoerotic art
  • 1949: Phyllis George, American television personality and former Miss America
  • 1981: Stephen Amell, Canadian actor best known for his role in Arrow
  • Famous Events That Happened on May 8

  • 1945 Victory in Europe Day marked the official end of World War II in Europe
  • 1886 Pharmacist John Pemberton first sold Coca-Cola in Atlanta, Georgia
  • 1912 Paramount Pictures was founded in the United States
  • 1970 The Beatles released their final studio album titled Let It Be
  • 1980 The World Health Organization declared smallpox eradicated
  • 1999 Nancy Mace became the first woman to graduate from The Citadel military college in South Carolina
  • 2010 The European Union and International Monetary Fund approved a major financial rescue package for Greece
  • 2015 A massive magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck Nepal causing widespread damage and casualties
  • 2021 SpaceX successfully launched and landed its Starship prototype SN15
  • Famous People Who Died on May 8

  • 1794: Antoine Lavoisier, French chemist known as the father of modern chemistry
  • 1828: Henry Singleton, English painter famous for his historical and literary works
  • 1880: Gustave Flaubert, French novelist best known for his work Madame Bovary
  • 1919: Edward Weston, English painter and sculptor
  • 1975: Avery Brundage, American sports administrator and former IOC President
  • 1982: Gilles Villeneuve, Canadian Formula One racing driver
  • 1994: George Peppard, American actor known for his role in The A-Team
  • 2008: Eddy Arnold, American country music singer and songwriter
  • 2012: Maurice Sendak, American author and illustrator of Where the Wild Things Are
  • 2020: Roy Horn, German-American magician and performer of Siegfried and Roy
  • May 8 is a day deeply connected with global remembrance and progress. It reflects humanity’s resilience through historical milestones like the end of World War II in Europe, marking a triumph of peace over conflict. The day also highlights advancements in science, art, and culture, showing how innovation and creativity continue to shape the modern world.

    From the birth of influential leaders and artists to the passing of remarkable figures, May 8 serves as a reminder of the lasting impact individuals can have on history. It celebrates courage, discovery, and the power of unity, making it a day that continues to inspire generations across the globe.