A New Hampshire law legalizing civil unions for same-sex couples comes into effect
A New Hampshire law legalizing civil unions for same-sex couples comes into effect
Year in History
Explore the major historical events, famous births, and notable deaths that occurred in the year 2008. This year saw 152 significant events. 8 notable figures passed away.
21st Century2000s
2008 Timeline
A New Hampshire law legalizing civil unions for same-sex couples comes into effect
A New Hampshire law legalizing civil unions for same-sex couples comes into effect
Australian pop diva Natalie Imbruglia (32) and "Silverchair" frontman Daniel Johns (28) announce their divorce stating "
Australian pop diva Natalie Imbruglia (32) and "Silverchair" frontman Daniel Johns (28) announce their divorce stating "we have simply grown apart through not being able to spend enough time together"
"Breaking Bad," created by Vince Gilligan and starring Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul, premieres on AMC
Breaking Bad is an American neo-Western crime drama television series created and produced by Vince Gilligan for AMC.
Fears of a possible US recession cause a Black Monday for global stock markets, European stocks suffer their worst decli
Fears of a possible US recession cause a Black Monday for global stock markets, European stocks suffer their worst decline since 9/11, and Asian stocks drop as much as 15%
Toshiba announces its formal recall of its HD DVD video format, ending the format war with Sony's Blu-ray Disc
Toshiba Corporation (株式会社東芝, Kabushikigaisha Tōshiba; English: ) is a Japanese multinational electronics company headquartered in Saiwai-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture.
"Baywatch" actress Pamela Anderson (40) divorces Rick Salomon (39) due to irreconcilable differences only 2 months after
"Baywatch" actress Pamela Anderson (40) divorces Rick Salomon (39) due to irreconcilable differences only 2 months after getting married
Fidel Castro retires as the President of Cuba due to ill health after nearly fifty years in power
Fidel Castro retires as the President of Cuba due to ill health after nearly fifty years in power
American actor Michael Biehn (52) divorces English film producer Gina Marsh (43) after 20 years of marriage
American actor Michael Biehn (52) divorces English film producer Gina Marsh (43) after 20 years of marriage
Musician Paul McCartney (65) divorces former model and anti-landmines campaigner Heather Mills (40) on the grounds of un
Musician Paul McCartney (65) divorces former model and anti-landmines campaigner Heather Mills (40) on the grounds of unreasonable behavior after 5-1/2 years of marriage
Second wife Marsha Garces divorces comedian Robin Williams (56) after nearly 19 years of marriage due to irreconcilable
Second wife Marsha Garces divorces comedian Robin Williams (56) after nearly 19 years of marriage due to irreconcilable differences
Danica Patrick driving for Andretti Green Racing wins the Indy Japan 300 at Twin Ring Motegi; first female driver in his
Danica Patrick driving for Andretti Green Racing wins the Indy Japan 300 at Twin Ring Motegi; first female driver in history to win an IndyCar Series race
Cyclone Nargis makes landfall in Myanmar, killing over 130,000 people and leaving millions homeless
Cyclone Nargis makes landfall in Myanmar, killing over 130,000 people and leaving millions homeless
First film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe released: "Iron Man" directed by Jon Favreau, starring Robert Downey Jr. as
First film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe released: "Iron Man" directed by Jon Favreau, starring Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark
Seth MacFarlane reaches an agreement worth $100 million with Fox to keep "Family Guy" and "American Dad" on television u
Seth MacFarlane reaches an agreement worth $100 million with Fox to keep "Family Guy" and "American Dad" on television until 2012, making him the world's highest-paid television writer
"The View" former co-host Star Jones (46) divorces investment banker Al Reynolds (39) after three-and-a-half years of ma
"The View" former co-host Star Jones (46) divorces investment banker Al Reynolds (39) after three-and-a-half years of marriage
Wenchuan earthquake, measuring 7.8 in magnitude occurs in Sichuan, China, killing over 87,000, injuring 374,643 and leav
Wenchuan earthquake, measuring 7.8 in magnitude occurs in Sichuan, China, killing over 87,000, injuring 374,643 and leaving homeless between 4.8 million and 11 million people
"24" actor Kiefer Sutherland (37) divorces former model Elizabeth Kelly Winn (42) due to irreconcilable differences afte
"24" actor Kiefer Sutherland (37) divorces former model Elizabeth Kelly Winn (42) due to irreconcilable differences after nearly 8 years of marriage
Actor Bill Murray (57) divorces costume designer Jennifer Butler (42) due to abuse and infidelity after 10 years of marr
Actor Bill Murray (57) divorces costume designer Jennifer Butler (42) due to abuse and infidelity after 10 years of marriage
American super-swimmer Michael Phelps wins three gold medals, all in world record time, in one day at the Beijing Olympi
American super-swimmer Michael Phelps wins three gold medals, all in world record time, in one day at the Beijing Olympics: 200 m IM (1:54.23), 200 m butterfly (1:52.03), and 4x200m freestyle relay (6:58.56)
Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt sets a new world record of 9.69 seconds to win the 100 m gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Sum
Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt sets a new world record of 9.69 seconds to win the 100 m gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics
Genesis drummer and vocalist Phil Collins (57) divorces Swiss-born Orianne Cevey (35) after six years of marriage
Genesis drummer and vocalist Phil Collins (57) divorces Swiss-born Orianne Cevey (35) after six years of marriage
Belarusian weightlifter Andrei Aramnau breaks three world records in the snatch, clean and jerk, and total on his way to
Belarusian weightlifter Andrei Aramnau breaks three world records in the snatch, clean and jerk, and total on his way to winning the men's 105 kg gold medal at the Beijing Olympics
Interscope Records releases "The Fame," the debut album by Lady Gaga (Grammy Award for Best Electronic/Dance Album 2010)
The Fame is the debut studio album by American singer-songwriter Lady Gaga. It was released on August 19, 2008, by Interscope Records.
Actor-comedian Tom Arnold (48) divorces Shelby Roos (35) after six years of marriage
Actor-comedian Tom Arnold (48) divorces Shelby Roos (35) after six years of marriage
Ethiopian distance runner Kenenisa Bekele wraps up the 5,000/10,000m double at the Beijing Olympics when he takes gold i
Ethiopian distance runner Kenenisa Bekele wraps up the 5,000/10,000m double at the Beijing Olympics when he takes gold in the 5,000m in an Olympic record 12:57.82
Summer Olympics in Beijing become the most-watched event on TV ever, with nearly 5 billion viewers, 70% of the world's p
Summer Olympics in Beijing become the most-watched event on TV ever, with nearly 5 billion viewers, 70% of the world's population
US Senator Barack Obama becomes the first African American to be nominated by a major political party for President of t
US Senator Barack Obama becomes the first African American to be nominated by a major political party for President of the United States, by the Democratic Party
The Large Hadron Collider at CERN, described as the biggest scientific experiment in the history of mankind, is powered
The Large Hadron Collider at CERN, described as the biggest scientific experiment in the history of mankind, is powered up in Geneva, Switzerland
Dow Jones Industrial Average falls 777.68 points, its then-largest single-day point loss, following the bankruptcies of
Dow Jones Industrial Average falls 777.68 points, its then-largest single-day point loss, following the bankruptcies of Lehman Brothers and Washington Mutual
Actor and comedian Chris Kattan (37) divorces model Sunshine Tutt (32) due to irreconcilable differences after 2 months
Actor and comedian Chris Kattan (37) divorces model Sunshine Tutt (32) due to irreconcilable differences after 2 months of marriage
Bloody Friday: Many of the world's stock exchanges experience the worst decline in their history, with drops of around 1
Bloody Friday: Many of the world's stock exchanges experience the worst decline in their history, with drops of around 10% in most indices
Barack Obama becomes the first African-American to be elected President of the United States, defeating Republican candi
Barack Obama becomes the first African-American to be elected President of the United States, defeating Republican candidate John McCain
"CSI" actress Marg Helgenberger (50) divorces actor Alan Rosenberg (58) due to irreconcilable differences after 19 years
"CSI" actress Marg Helgenberger (50) divorces actor Alan Rosenberg (58) due to irreconcilable differences after 19 years of marriage
Pop singer Madonna (50) divorces film director Guy Ritchie (40) due to unreasonable behavior after almost 8 years of mar
Pop singer Madonna (50) divorces film director Guy Ritchie (40) due to unreasonable behavior after almost 8 years of marriage
Detroit Lions crash to a 31-21 loss to the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field, the first team in NFL history to go winle
Detroit Lions crash to a 31-21 loss to the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field, the first team in NFL history to go winless in a 16-game season
Joe Gibbs retires, for the second time, as head coach of the Washington Redskins
Joe Jackson Gibbs is a former football coach and an American auto racing team owner.
Orlando Magic knock down a then NBA-record 23 3-pointers in 37 attempts (62.2%); Jameer Nelson goes 5-for-5 from beyond
Orlando Magic knock down a then NBA-record 23 3-pointers in 37 attempts (62.2%); Jameer Nelson goes 5-for-5 from beyond the arc as Magic beat the Sacramento Kings, 139-107
MESSENGER spacecraft performs a Mercury flyby
MESSENGER was a NASA robotic space probe that orbited the planet Mercury between 2011 and 2015, studying Mercury's chemical composition, geology, and magnetic field.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority members celebrate 100th anniversary by donating $1 million to scholarship funds at Howard Uni
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority members celebrate 100th anniversary by donating $1 million to scholarship funds at Howard University in Washington, D.C.
Canadian jockey Russell Baze rides his 10,000th career winner aboard Two Step Cat in 3rd race at Golden Gate Fields, Alb
Canadian jockey Russell Baze rides his 10,000th career winner aboard Two Step Cat in 3rd race at Golden Gate Fields, Albany, CA; prevails in a 3-horse photo finish
A major tornado outbreak across the Southern United States leaves at least 58 dead, the most since the May 31, 1985 outb
A major tornado outbreak across the Southern United States leaves at least 58 dead, the most since the May 31, 1985 outbreak that killed 88.
Nebraska bans electric chair as sole execution method
The electric chair is a specialized device used for capital punishment through electrocution.
In East Timor, assassination attempts made on independence activists Xanana Gusmao and Jose Ramos-Horta. Both fail.
In East Timor, assassination attempts made on independence activists Xanana Gusmao and Jose Ramos-Horta. Both fail.
Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd makes an historic apology to Indigenous Australians, especially to the Stolen Gener
Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd makes an historic apology to Indigenous Australians, especially to the Stolen Generations who suffered forced child removal and assimilation [1]
A gunman opens fire in a lecture hall at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb County, Illinois, killing six people, in
A gunman opens fire in a lecture hall at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb County, Illinois, killing six people, including himself, and injuring 18
50th Daytona 500: Ryan Newman wins shootout going into the final turn from Tony Stewart, and the Busch brothers, Kurt an
50th Daytona 500: Ryan Newman wins shootout going into the final turn from Tony Stewart, and the Busch brothers, Kurt and Kyle
Serzh Sargsyan wins the Armenian Presidential Election
Serzh Azati Sargsyan is an Armenian politician who served as the third President of Armenia from 2008 to 2018, and twice as the Prime Minister of Armenia from 2007 to 2008 and again from 17 to 23...
B-2 Spirit of the USAF crashes at Guam. Crew survives but aircraft written off, the most expensive air crash in human hi
B-2 Spirit of the USAF crashes at Guam. Crew survives but aircraft written off, the most expensive air crash in human history (aircraft alone cost $1.2Bn). B-2 had a perfect safety record before the crash; not one B-2 ever crashed.
Global Seed Vault officially opens in Svalbard, Norway, to help preserve diversity and loss from other genebanks
The Svalbard Global Seed Vault (Norwegian: Svalbard globale frøhvelv) is a secure backup facility for the world's crop diversity on the Norwegian island of Spitsbergen in the remote Arctic Svalbard...
Former PM of Thailand Thaksin Shinawatra is arrested on corruption charges after returning to Thailand following months
Former PM of Thailand Thaksin Shinawatra is arrested on corruption charges after returning to Thailand following months of exile
Riots in Yerevan, Armenia concerning the Armenian presidential election, 2008 come to a fatal end, with police forces cl
Riots in Yerevan, Armenia concerning the Armenian presidential election, 2008 come to a fatal end, with police forces clashing with civilians in their peaceful protest, resulting in 8 deaths.
Streaming service Hulu launches for public access in the United States
Streaming service Hulu launches for public access in the United States
Price of gold on the New York Mercantile Exchange hits $1,000.00 an ounce for the first time
Price of gold on the New York Mercantile Exchange hits $1,000.00 an ounce for the first time
Governor Eliot Spitzer of New York resigns after scandal involving a high-end prostitute; David Paterson becomes acting
Governor Eliot Spitzer of New York resigns after scandal involving a high-end prostitute; David Paterson becomes acting governor
GRB 080319B: A cosmic burst that is the farthest object visible to the naked eye is briefly observed
GRB 080319B: A cosmic burst that is the farthest object visible to the naked eye is briefly observed
French Swimmer Alain Bernard sets world record of 47.50 for 100m freestyle long course after winning the European LC Cha
French Swimmer Alain Bernard sets world record of 47.50 for 100m freestyle long course after winning the European LC Championships 2008
Bhutan officially becomes a democracy, with its first ever general election.
Bhutan officially becomes a democracy, with its first ever general election.
Aloha Airlines, a bankrupt airline, permanently ends passenger service
Skyway Airlines was an American ramp and aircraft ground handling services and catering company based in Oak Creek, Wisconsin.
New York Yankees set a MLB record by winning their 11th straight home opener, 3-2 against Toronto Blue Jays
New York Yankees set a MLB record by winning their 11th straight home opener, 3-2 against Toronto Blue Jays
Raid on Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints owned YFZ Ranch in Texas; 401 children and 133 women
Raid on Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints owned YFZ Ranch in Texas; 401 children and 133 women taken into state custody
World's first building to integrate wind turbines is completed in Bahrain
The Bahrain World Trade Center is a 240-metre-high (787 ft), 50-floor, twin tower complex located in Manama, Bahrain.
NBA owners give approval of a potential Seattle SuperSonics' relocation to Oklahoma City in a 28–2 vote by the Board of
NBA owners give approval of a potential Seattle SuperSonics' relocation to Oklahoma City in a 28–2 vote by the Board of Governors
The United States Air Force retires the F-117 Nighthawk stealth surface-attack aircraft
The Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk is a retired American single-seat, subsonic, twin-engined stealth attack aircraft developed by Lockheed's secretive Skunk Works division and operated by the United States...
NFL Draft: University of Michigan offensive tackle Jake Long first pick by Miami Dolphins
The 1997 NFL draft was the procedure by which National Football League teams selected amateur college football players. It is officially known as the NFL Annual Player Selection Meeting.
Heidi Klum launches her clothing line for Jordache
Heidi Klum is a German and American model, television host, actress, producer, and businesswoman.
The London Agreement on translation of European patents, concluded in 2000, enters into force in 14 of the 34 Contractin
The London Agreement on translation of European patents, concluded in 2000, enters into force in 14 of the 34 Contracting States to the European Patent Convention.
Chaiten Volcano erupts in Chile, forcing the evacuation of more than 4,500 people
Chaiten Volcano erupts in Chile, forcing the evacuation of more than 4,500 people
California becomes the second US state after Massachusetts in 2004 to legalize same-sex marriage after its Supreme Court
California becomes the second US state after Massachusetts in 2004 to legalize same-sex marriage after its Supreme Court rules a previous ban unconstitutional
International Court of Justice awards Middle Rocks to Malaysia and Pedra Branca (Pulau Batu Puteh) to Singapore, ending
International Court of Justice awards Middle Rocks to Malaysia and Pedra Branca (Pulau Batu Puteh) to Singapore, ending a 29-year territorial dispute
61st Cannes Film Festival: "The Class" directed by Laurent Cantet wins the Palme d'Or
The year 2008 involved many major film events. The Dark Knight was the year's highest-grossing film, while Slumdog Millionaire won the Academy Award for Best Picture (out of eight Academy Awards).
First Constituent Assembly of Nepal formally declares Nepal a republic, ending the 240-year reign of the Shah dynasty
Nepal is a multi-ethnic, multiracial, multicultural, multi-religious, and multilingual country.
A fire at the backlot of Universal Studios Hollywood destroys several icons from movies, such as Courthouse Square, the
A fire at the backlot of Universal Studios Hollywood destroys several icons from movies, such as Courthouse Square, the clock tower from Back to the Future, and the King Kong exhibit on the studio tour.
Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland formed as second-largest European national park, combining Skaftafell and Jökulsárg
Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland formed as second-largest European national park, combining Skaftafell and Jökulsárgljúfur parks and the Vatnajökull ice cap (World Heritage Site 2019) [1]
Akihabara massacre takes place on the crowded Sunday pedestrian-zoned Chūōdōri street in Tokyo, Japan, when a man uses a
Akihabara massacre takes place on the crowded Sunday pedestrian-zoned Chūōdōri street in Tokyo, Japan, when a man uses a truck and dagger to kill seven people and injure 11
Gora Prai airstrike by the US reportedly kills 11 Pakistani paramilitary troops and 8 Taliban fighters in Pakistan's tri
Gora Prai airstrike by the US reportedly kills 11 Pakistani paramilitary troops and 8 Taliban fighters in Pakistan's tribal areas
62nd Tony Awards: "In the Heights" (musical) & "August: Osage County" (play) win
The 62nd Tony Awards ceremony was held on June 15, 2008. The Antoinette Perry Awards for Excellence in Theatre, more commonly known as the Tony Awards, recognize achievement in live American theatre.
First day of legal same-sex marriage in California
Same-sex marriage has been legal in California since June 28, 2013. The State of California first issued marriage licenses to same-sex couples from June 16, 2008 to November 5, 2008, as a result of...
Félix Hernández of the Seattle Mariners hits a grand slam home run against New York Mets, 1st pitcher since Steve Dunnin
Félix Hernández of the Seattle Mariners hits a grand slam home run against New York Mets, 1st pitcher since Steve Dunning in 1971
Atlantis Plastics shooting, An employee shot and killed five people after an argument, which ended in the gunman's suici
Atlantis Plastics shooting, An employee shot and killed five people after an argument, which ended in the gunman's suicide in Henderson, Kentucky
NBA Draft: Memphis point guard Derrick Rose first pick by Chicago Bulls
Derrick Martell Rose is an American former professional basketball player. He played one year of college basketball for the Memphis Tigers before being drafted first overall by his hometown Chicago...
Thomas Beatie, the world's first pregnant man, gives birth to a daughter
Thomas Trace Beatie is an American public speaker, author, and advocate of transgender rights and sexuality issues, with a focus on transgender fertility and reproductive rights. Beatie came out as a...
Denmark is the first European economy to confirm it is in recession since the global credit crunch began; its GDP shrink
Denmark is the first European economy to confirm it is in recession since the global credit crunch began; its GDP shrinks 0.6% in the first quarter after a 0.2% contraction in the fourth quarter of 2007
A settlement is reached allowing former NBA franchise the Seattle SuperSonics to move to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; new ow
A settlement is reached allowing former NBA franchise the Seattle SuperSonics to move to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; new owner Clay Bennett agrees to pay City of Seattle $45 million to wriggle out of last 2 years of KeyArena lease
Former Macedonian Interior Minister Ljube Boškoski is acquitted of all charges by a UN Tribunal accusing him of war crim
Former Macedonian Interior Minister Ljube Boškoski is acquitted of all charges by a UN Tribunal accusing him of war crimes
Canadian harness racer John Campbell wins his 10,000th race as a driver by guiding 'Share the Delight' to victory in the
Canadian harness racer John Campbell wins his 10,000th race as a driver by guiding 'Share the Delight' to victory in the 6th race at Meadowlands Racetrack
Malaysian politician Anwar Ibrahim is arrested on sodomy charges in Malaysia
Anwar bin Ibrahim is a Malaysian politician who has served as the 10th prime minister of Malaysia since 2022.
Billy Joel performs last of two concerts dubbed "The Last Play at Shea"; the final concert event before demolition of th
Billy Joel performs last of two concerts dubbed "The Last Play at Shea"; the final concert event before demolition of the 1964 baseball stadium in Flushing Meadows, Queens, NYC; featured guests include Roger Daltrey, Tony Bennett, Garth Brooks, and Paul McCartney
Cape Verde joins the World Trade Organization, becoming its 153rd member
Cape Verde or Cabo Verde, officially the Republic of Cabo Verde, is an island country and archipelagic state in the central Atlantic Ocean off the coast of West Africa.
Historic Weston-super-Mare Grand Pier burns down for a second time in 80 years
Historic Weston-super-Mare Grand Pier burns down for a second time in 80 years
Russian-supported forces of the self-proclaimed Republic of South Ossetia attack Georgian villages, breaking a 1992 ceas
Russian-supported forces of the self-proclaimed Republic of South Ossetia attack Georgian villages, breaking a 1992 ceasefire agreement
A military junta led by Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz stages a coup in Mauritania, overthrowing President Sidi Ould Cheikh Abd
A military junta led by Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz stages a coup in Mauritania, overthrowing President Sidi Ould Cheikh Abdallahi
Russo-Georgian War: Georgia moves troops into the Russian-supported self-proclaimed republic of South Ossetia in respons
Russo-Georgian War: Georgia moves troops into the Russian-supported self-proclaimed republic of South Ossetia in response to aggression; first European war of the 21st century
Russia launches a full-scale land, air, and sea invasion of Georgia, referring to it as a "peace enforcement" operation
Russia launches a full-scale land, air, and sea invasion of Georgia, referring to it as a "peace enforcement" operation after Georgia responds to aggression from South Ossetia
US wins all three medals in women's fencing sabre event at the Beijing Olympics, the first US podium sweep of a fencing
US wins all three medals in women's fencing sabre event at the Beijing Olympics, the first US podium sweep of a fencing event since 1904; Mariel Zagunis wins gold ahead of Sada Jacobson and Rebecca Ward
Abhinav Bindra wins the men's 10 m air rifle at the Beijing Olympics, achieving the first individual Olympic gold medal
Abhinav Bindra wins the men's 10 m air rifle at the Beijing Olympics, achieving the first individual Olympic gold medal for India and the country's first gold medal in any Olympic event since 1980
A popular Chinese 1-2 in the 200 m butterfly at the Beijing Olympics with Liu Zige swimming a world record of 2:04.18 to
A popular Chinese 1-2 in the 200 m butterfly at the Beijing Olympics with Liu Zige swimming a world record of 2:04.18 to beat teammate Jiao Liuyang
American breaststroker Rebecca Soni avenges her defeat to Leisel Jones of Australia in the 100 m by swimming a world rec
American breaststroker Rebecca Soni avenges her defeat to Leisel Jones of Australia in the 100 m by swimming a world record of 2:20.22 to beat Jones in the 200 m at the Beijing Olympics
Australian women's 4 x 100 m medley relay team of Emily Seebohm, Leisel Jones, Jessicah Schipper, and Libby Trickett ups
Australian women's 4 x 100 m medley relay team of Emily Seebohm, Leisel Jones, Jessicah Schipper, and Libby Trickett upsets the United States to win the gold medal in a world record time of 3:52.69 at the Beijing Olympics
An American 1-2-3 in the 400 m hurdles at the Beijing Olympics; Angelo Taylor wins gold in 47.25 ahead of Kerron Clement
An American 1-2-3 in the 400 m hurdles at the Beijing Olympics; Angelo Taylor wins gold in 47.25 ahead of Kerron Clement and Bershawn Jackson
Britain's Victoria Pendleton beats Anna Mears in the women's cycling sprint final at the Beijing Olympics, with Great Br
Britain's Victoria Pendleton beats Anna Mears in the women's cycling sprint final at the Beijing Olympics, with Great Britain dominating the track by winning 7 of 10 gold medals
Russian long-distance swimmer Larisa Ilchenko wins inaugural women's open-water marathon (10 km) in 1:59:27.7 at the Bei
Russian long-distance swimmer Larisa Ilchenko wins inaugural women's open-water marathon (10 km) in 1:59:27.7 at the Beijing Olympics
After winning the event in Athens, Jamaican sprinter Veronica Campbell-Brown wins consecutive 200 m Olympic titles, beat
After winning the event in Athens, Jamaican sprinter Veronica Campbell-Brown wins consecutive 200 m Olympic titles, beating American Allyson Felix by 0.19 seconds in Beijing
American decathlete Bryan Clay wins 4 of the 10 events and finishes second in 2 others to dominate the field and take th
American decathlete Bryan Clay wins 4 of the 10 events and finishes second in 2 others to dominate the field and take the gold medal at the Beijing Olympics
Australian diver Matthew Mitcham wins the men's 10 m platform gold medal with a final dive at the Beijing Olympics, prev
Australian diver Matthew Mitcham wins the men's 10 m platform gold medal with a final dive at the Beijing Olympics, preventing the Chinese from winning every diving event and achieving the highest score for an individual dive in Olympic history (112.10)
Dániel Varga and Péter Biros score 3 goals each as Hungary wins the men's water polo gold medal at the Beijing Olympics,
Dániel Varga and Péter Biros score 3 goals each as Hungary wins the men's water polo gold medal at the Beijing Olympics, their third consecutive Olympic gold medal
Russia unilaterally recognizes the independence of the former Georgian breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia,
Russia unilaterally recognizes the independence of the former Georgian breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, prompting the Georgian government to sever diplomatic relations with Russia
The new Oklahoma City NBA franchise announces the team will be named the "Thunder" in reference to powerful storms in th
The new Oklahoma City NBA franchise announces the team will be named the "Thunder" in reference to powerful storms in the area
Haiti's government reports a death toll of at least 529 people as a result of flooding caused by Tropical Storm Hanna ar
Haiti's government reports a death toll of at least 529 people as a result of flooding caused by Tropical Storm Hanna around the northern port city of Gonaïves
Beaux Arts Trio (Menahem Pressler, piano; Daniel Hope, violin; Antonio Meneses, cello) performs its final concert after
Beaux Arts Trio (Menahem Pressler, piano; Daniel Hope, violin; Antonio Meneses, cello) performs its final concert after 53 years in Lucerne, Switzerland
US Government takes control of the two largest mortgage financing companies in the US, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac
The Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA), commonly known as Fannie Mae, is a United States government-sponsored enterprise (GSE) that has been a publicly traded company since 1968.
Latvia joins its northern neighbor Estonia in recession as GDP falls 0.2% in the second quarter from the first quarter,
Latvia joins its northern neighbor Estonia in recession as GDP falls 0.2% in the second quarter from the first quarter, when it fell 0.3%; property markets and construction have suffered in both Baltic states
Chris Sharma redpoints Jumbo Love at Clark Mountain, California, the world's first consensus 9b (5.15b) route
Chris Omprakash Sharma is an American rock climber who is considered one of the greatest and most influential climbers in the history of the sport.
Hurricane Ike makes landfall on the Texas Gulf Coast, causing heavy damage to Galveston Island, Houston and surrounding
Hurricane Ike makes landfall on the Texas Gulf Coast, causing heavy damage to Galveston Island, Houston and surrounding areas
International Astronomical Union names another dwarf planet, Haumea
Haumea (minor-planet designation: 136108 Haumea) is a dwarf planet located beyond Neptune's orbit.
Greg Maddux pitches his 5,000th career inning against the San Francisco Giants
Gregory Alan Maddux, also known as "Mad Dog" and "the Professor," is an American former professional baseball pitcher who played 23 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB), primarily with the Atlanta...
Thierry Henry scores his first goal for Barcelona in a 3–0 Champions League group stage win over Lyon
The knockout phase of the 2008–09 UEFA Champions League began on 24 February 2009 and concluded with the final at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome on 27 May 2009.
60th Emmy Awards: Mad Men, 30 Rock, Bryan Cranston & Glenn Close win
60th Emmy Awards: Mad Men, 30 Rock, Bryan Cranston & Glenn Close win
China launches its third human spaceflight, the spacecraft Shenzhou 7
Human spaceflight (also referred to as crewed spaceflight, or more historically manned spaceflight) is spaceflight with a crew or passengers aboard a spacecraft, often with the spacecraft being...
Swiss pilot and inventor Yves Rossy is the first person to fly a jet engine-powered wing across the English Channel
Yves Rossy is a Swiss military-trained pilot and an aviation enthusiast. He is known as the inventor of a series of experimental individual jet packs, the latest using carbon-fibre wings for flight.
Astronaut Zhai Zhigang becomes the first Chinese person to perform a spacewalk while flying on Shenzhou 7
Astronaut Zhai Zhigang becomes the first Chinese person to perform a spacewalk while flying on Shenzhou 7
Greg Maddux wins the 355th and final start of his career
Gregory Alan Maddux, also known as "Mad Dog" and "the Professor," is an American former professional baseball pitcher who played 23 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB), primarily with the Atlanta...
MLB Boston Red Sox retire Johnny Pesky's jersey number 6
The Boston Red Sox are an American professional baseball team based in Boston. The Red Sox compete in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a member club of the American League (AL) East Division.
American surfer Kelly Slater clinches his record 9th world championship after round 3 of the Billabong Pro in Mundaka, S
American surfer Kelly Slater clinches his record 9th world championship after round 3 of the Billabong Pro in Mundaka, Spain; he accrues enough points with 5 victories to win the title with 2 scheduled ASP Tour contests remaining to be surfed
Messenger spacecraft performs a second flyby of Mercury
MESSENGER was a NASA robotic space probe that orbited the planet Mercury between 2011 and 2015, studying Mercury's chemical composition, geology, and magnetic field.
Music, podcast, and video streaming service Spotify is launched by Daniel Ek and Martin Lorentzon
Spotify is a Swedish audio streaming and media service provider founded in April 2006 by Daniel Ek and Martin Lorentzon.
The Nobel Prize in Medicine or Physiology is awarded jointly to Harald zur Hausen for his work on the cause of cervical
The Nobel Prize in Medicine or Physiology is awarded jointly to Harald zur Hausen for his work on the cause of cervical cancer and Françoise Barré-Sinoussi and Luc Montagnier for the discovery of HIV
Singapore becomes the first Asian country to slip into a recession since the credit crisis begins as growth falters due
Singapore becomes the first Asian country to slip into a recession since the credit crisis begins as growth falters due to decreased demand for exports, a reduction in tourism, and the end of the real estate boom
HM Treasury infused £37 billion ($64 billion, 47 billion euros) of new capital-bailout into Royal Bank of Scotland Group
HM Treasury infused £37 billion ($64 billion, 47 billion euros) of new capital-bailout into Royal Bank of Scotland Group Plc, Lloyds TSB and HBOS Plc, to avert a financial sector collapse.
Iran attempts to create the world's largest sandwich (1,500 meters) but fails when crowds eat it before it can be measur
Iran attempts to create the world's largest sandwich (1,500 meters) but fails when crowds eat it before it can be measured
Google Play is launched, the official app store for the Android operating system
Android is an operating system based on a modified version of the Linux kernel and other open-source software, designed primarily for touchscreen-based mobile devices such as smartphones and tablet...
Joe Sakic scores his final career goal (#625) against the Edmonton Oilers
Joseph Steven Sakic born July 7, 1969) is a Canadian professional ice hockey executive and former player.
The banking group BNP Paribas states that Australia is in a risky position with regards to the global financial crisis a
The banking group BNP Paribas states that Australia is in a risky position with regards to the global financial crisis as foreign liabilities accounted for 60% of the nation's GDP
In the UK, 500,000 mortgage holders are left in negative equity after house prices drop 15% since the previous summer
In the UK, 500,000 mortgage holders are left in negative equity after house prices drop 15% since the previous summer
White Paper "Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System" is published by the pseudonymous Satoshi Nakamoto; it descr
White Paper "Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System" is published by the pseudonymous Satoshi Nakamoto; it describes a decentralized peer-to-peer network that could track and verify transactions while producing a transparent, verifiable record.
American "Deftones" bassist Chi Cheng (38) suffers serious injuries in an automobile crash in Santa Clara, California, a
American "Deftones" bassist Chi Cheng (38) suffers serious injuries in an automobile crash in Santa Clara, California, as a seatbelt-less passenger, dying 4-1/2 years later
RMS Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) sets sail from Southampton, England on her final voyage to Dubai
Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) is a retired British ocean liner. Built by John Brown & Company on the River Clyde in Scotland for the Cunard Line, the ship was operated as a transatlantic liner and cruise...
Equity research by Deutsche Bank states that Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines should not experience a r
Equity research by Deutsche Bank states that Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines should not experience a recession, despite potential harm to economic growth from falling commodity prices and possible weaker exports
After critical failures in the US financial system began to build up after mid-September, the Dow Jones Industrial Avera
After critical failures in the US financial system began to build up after mid-September, the Dow Jones Industrial Average reaches its lowest level since 1997
Patrick Roy's #33 jersey is retired by the Montreal Canadiens
Patrick Roy's #33 jersey is retired by the Montreal Canadiens
Economists at the University of Hawaii report that the state entered recession in the previous quarter based on the drop
Economists at the University of Hawaii report that the state entered recession in the previous quarter based on the drop in tourist figures and growing unemployment, with 8,800 jobs expected to be cut in 2009
A car bomb in St. Petersburg, Russia, kills three people and injures one
A car bomb in St. Petersburg, Russia, kills three people and injures one
Ten coordinated attacks by Pakistan-based terrorists kill 164 and injure more than 250 people in Mumbai, India
A series of 12 coordinated Islamist terrorist attacks, sometimes called 26/11, were carried out in Mumbai, India, from 26 to 29 November 2008 by 10 members of Lashkar-e-Taiba, a Pakistan-based...
Sweden technically enters a recession after experiencing a contraction of 0.1% in the second and third quarters
The Great Recession was a period of market decline in economies around the world that occurred from late 2007 to mid-2009, overlapping with the closely related 2008 financial crisis.
The US economy has been in recession since December 2007, the National Bureau of Economic Research announces today
In the United States, the Great Recession was a severe financial crisis combined with a deep recession.
American pin-up model Bettie Page (85) is hospitalized in critical condition after suffering a heart attack
American pin-up model Bettie Page (85) is hospitalized in critical condition after suffering a heart attack
Kirsty Williams is elected leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, becoming the first female leader of a political party
Kirsty Williams is elected leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, becoming the first female leader of a political party in Wales
Governor of Illinois, Rod Blagojevich, is arrested by federal officials for a number of alleged crimes, including attemp
Governor of Illinois, Rod Blagojevich, is arrested by federal officials for a number of alleged crimes, including attempting to sell the United States Senate seat being vacated by President-elect Barack Obama
Andrei Klepach, Deputy Economic Minister of Russia, states that Russia has entered a recession, with two quarters of con
Andrei Klepach, Deputy Economic Minister of Russia, states that Russia has entered a recession, with two quarters of contraction expected, meaning Russia will fall short of reaching the 6.8% growth forecast for 2008
74th Heisman Trophy Award: Sam Bradford, Oklahoma (QB)
74th Heisman Trophy Award: Sam Bradford, Oklahoma (QB)
Phil Jackson becomes the sixth coach in NBA history to win 1,000 games as Los Angeles Lakers beat Boston Celtics, 92-83
Phil Jackson becomes the sixth coach in NBA history to win 1,000 games as Los Angeles Lakers beat Boston Celtics, 92-83 at the Staples Center, Los Angeles
Israel launches Operation Cast Lead in the Gaza Strip, beginning with an airstrike that hits 100 targets in 220 seconds
Israel launches Operation Cast Lead in the Gaza Strip, beginning with an airstrike that hits 100 targets in 220 seconds killing around 250 people
NFL head coach Mike Shanahan is fired by the Denver Broncos
Michael Edward Shanahan ( SHAN-ə-han; born August 24, 1952) is an American former football coach, best known as the head coach of the Denver Broncos of the National Football League (NFL) from 1995 to...
Edmund Hillary dies
Edmund Hillary, New Zealand zealand mountaineer, known for new zealand mountaineer, died on 2008-01-11.
Bobby Fischer dies
Bobby Fischer, American chess grandmaster, known for american chess grandmaster, died on 2008-01-17.
Suharto dies
Suharto dies
Arthur C. Clarke dies
Arthur C. Clarke, English science fiction writer, known for british science fiction writer, died on 2008-03-19.
Sydney Pollack dies
Sydney Pollack, American filmmaker and actor, known for american filmmaker and actor, died on 2008-05-26.
Bo Diddley dies
Bo Diddley, American guitarist and singer, known for american guitarist and singer, died on 2008-06-02.
Estelle Getty dies
Estelle Getty, American actress, known for american actress, died on 2008-07-22. Estelle Gettleman, known professionally as Estelle Getty, was an American actress and comedian.
Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn dies
Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, Russian soviet-russian author and dissident, known for soviet-russian author and dissident, died on 2008-08-03.
Events
Australian pop diva Natalie Imbruglia (32) and "Silverchair" frontman Daniel Johns (28) announce their divorce stating "
Australian pop diva Natalie Imbruglia (32) and "Silverchair" frontman Daniel Johns (28) announce their divorce stating "we have simply grown apart through not being able to spend enough time together"
"Breaking Bad," created by Vince Gilligan and starring Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul, premieres on AMC
Breaking Bad is an American neo-Western crime drama television series created and produced by Vince Gilligan for AMC.
Fears of a possible US recession cause a Black Monday for global stock markets, European stocks suffer their worst decli
Fears of a possible US recession cause a Black Monday for global stock markets, European stocks suffer their worst decline since 9/11, and Asian stocks drop as much as 15%
Toshiba announces its formal recall of its HD DVD video format, ending the format war with Sony's Blu-ray Disc
Toshiba Corporation (株式会社東芝, Kabushikigaisha Tōshiba; English: ) is a Japanese multinational electronics company headquartered in Saiwai-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture.
"Baywatch" actress Pamela Anderson (40) divorces Rick Salomon (39) due to irreconcilable differences only 2 months after
"Baywatch" actress Pamela Anderson (40) divorces Rick Salomon (39) due to irreconcilable differences only 2 months after getting married
Fidel Castro retires as the President of Cuba due to ill health after nearly fifty years in power
Fidel Castro retires as the President of Cuba due to ill health after nearly fifty years in power
American actor Michael Biehn (52) divorces English film producer Gina Marsh (43) after 20 years of marriage
American actor Michael Biehn (52) divorces English film producer Gina Marsh (43) after 20 years of marriage
Musician Paul McCartney (65) divorces former model and anti-landmines campaigner Heather Mills (40) on the grounds of un
Musician Paul McCartney (65) divorces former model and anti-landmines campaigner Heather Mills (40) on the grounds of unreasonable behavior after 5-1/2 years of marriage
Second wife Marsha Garces divorces comedian Robin Williams (56) after nearly 19 years of marriage due to irreconcilable
Second wife Marsha Garces divorces comedian Robin Williams (56) after nearly 19 years of marriage due to irreconcilable differences
Danica Patrick driving for Andretti Green Racing wins the Indy Japan 300 at Twin Ring Motegi; first female driver in his
Danica Patrick driving for Andretti Green Racing wins the Indy Japan 300 at Twin Ring Motegi; first female driver in history to win an IndyCar Series race
Cyclone Nargis makes landfall in Myanmar, killing over 130,000 people and leaving millions homeless
Cyclone Nargis makes landfall in Myanmar, killing over 130,000 people and leaving millions homeless
First film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe released: "Iron Man" directed by Jon Favreau, starring Robert Downey Jr. as
First film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe released: "Iron Man" directed by Jon Favreau, starring Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark
Seth MacFarlane reaches an agreement worth $100 million with Fox to keep "Family Guy" and "American Dad" on television u
Seth MacFarlane reaches an agreement worth $100 million with Fox to keep "Family Guy" and "American Dad" on television until 2012, making him the world's highest-paid television writer
"The View" former co-host Star Jones (46) divorces investment banker Al Reynolds (39) after three-and-a-half years of ma
"The View" former co-host Star Jones (46) divorces investment banker Al Reynolds (39) after three-and-a-half years of marriage
Wenchuan earthquake, measuring 7.8 in magnitude occurs in Sichuan, China, killing over 87,000, injuring 374,643 and leav
Wenchuan earthquake, measuring 7.8 in magnitude occurs in Sichuan, China, killing over 87,000, injuring 374,643 and leaving homeless between 4.8 million and 11 million people
"24" actor Kiefer Sutherland (37) divorces former model Elizabeth Kelly Winn (42) due to irreconcilable differences afte
"24" actor Kiefer Sutherland (37) divorces former model Elizabeth Kelly Winn (42) due to irreconcilable differences after nearly 8 years of marriage
Actor Bill Murray (57) divorces costume designer Jennifer Butler (42) due to abuse and infidelity after 10 years of marr
Actor Bill Murray (57) divorces costume designer Jennifer Butler (42) due to abuse and infidelity after 10 years of marriage
American super-swimmer Michael Phelps wins three gold medals, all in world record time, in one day at the Beijing Olympi
American super-swimmer Michael Phelps wins three gold medals, all in world record time, in one day at the Beijing Olympics: 200 m IM (1:54.23), 200 m butterfly (1:52.03), and 4x200m freestyle relay (6:58.56)
Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt sets a new world record of 9.69 seconds to win the 100 m gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Sum
Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt sets a new world record of 9.69 seconds to win the 100 m gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics
Genesis drummer and vocalist Phil Collins (57) divorces Swiss-born Orianne Cevey (35) after six years of marriage
Genesis drummer and vocalist Phil Collins (57) divorces Swiss-born Orianne Cevey (35) after six years of marriage
Belarusian weightlifter Andrei Aramnau breaks three world records in the snatch, clean and jerk, and total on his way to
Belarusian weightlifter Andrei Aramnau breaks three world records in the snatch, clean and jerk, and total on his way to winning the men's 105 kg gold medal at the Beijing Olympics
Interscope Records releases "The Fame," the debut album by Lady Gaga (Grammy Award for Best Electronic/Dance Album 2010)
The Fame is the debut studio album by American singer-songwriter Lady Gaga. It was released on August 19, 2008, by Interscope Records.
Actor-comedian Tom Arnold (48) divorces Shelby Roos (35) after six years of marriage
Actor-comedian Tom Arnold (48) divorces Shelby Roos (35) after six years of marriage
Ethiopian distance runner Kenenisa Bekele wraps up the 5,000/10,000m double at the Beijing Olympics when he takes gold i
Ethiopian distance runner Kenenisa Bekele wraps up the 5,000/10,000m double at the Beijing Olympics when he takes gold in the 5,000m in an Olympic record 12:57.82
Summer Olympics in Beijing become the most-watched event on TV ever, with nearly 5 billion viewers, 70% of the world's p
Summer Olympics in Beijing become the most-watched event on TV ever, with nearly 5 billion viewers, 70% of the world's population
US Senator Barack Obama becomes the first African American to be nominated by a major political party for President of t
US Senator Barack Obama becomes the first African American to be nominated by a major political party for President of the United States, by the Democratic Party
The Large Hadron Collider at CERN, described as the biggest scientific experiment in the history of mankind, is powered
The Large Hadron Collider at CERN, described as the biggest scientific experiment in the history of mankind, is powered up in Geneva, Switzerland
Dow Jones Industrial Average falls 777.68 points, its then-largest single-day point loss, following the bankruptcies of
Dow Jones Industrial Average falls 777.68 points, its then-largest single-day point loss, following the bankruptcies of Lehman Brothers and Washington Mutual
Actor and comedian Chris Kattan (37) divorces model Sunshine Tutt (32) due to irreconcilable differences after 2 months
Actor and comedian Chris Kattan (37) divorces model Sunshine Tutt (32) due to irreconcilable differences after 2 months of marriage
Bloody Friday: Many of the world's stock exchanges experience the worst decline in their history, with drops of around 1
Bloody Friday: Many of the world's stock exchanges experience the worst decline in their history, with drops of around 10% in most indices
Barack Obama becomes the first African-American to be elected President of the United States, defeating Republican candi
Barack Obama becomes the first African-American to be elected President of the United States, defeating Republican candidate John McCain
"CSI" actress Marg Helgenberger (50) divorces actor Alan Rosenberg (58) due to irreconcilable differences after 19 years
"CSI" actress Marg Helgenberger (50) divorces actor Alan Rosenberg (58) due to irreconcilable differences after 19 years of marriage
Pop singer Madonna (50) divorces film director Guy Ritchie (40) due to unreasonable behavior after almost 8 years of mar
Pop singer Madonna (50) divorces film director Guy Ritchie (40) due to unreasonable behavior after almost 8 years of marriage
Detroit Lions crash to a 31-21 loss to the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field, the first team in NFL history to go winle
Detroit Lions crash to a 31-21 loss to the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field, the first team in NFL history to go winless in a 16-game season
Joe Gibbs retires, for the second time, as head coach of the Washington Redskins
Joe Jackson Gibbs is a former football coach and an American auto racing team owner.
Orlando Magic knock down a then NBA-record 23 3-pointers in 37 attempts (62.2%); Jameer Nelson goes 5-for-5 from beyond
Orlando Magic knock down a then NBA-record 23 3-pointers in 37 attempts (62.2%); Jameer Nelson goes 5-for-5 from beyond the arc as Magic beat the Sacramento Kings, 139-107
MESSENGER spacecraft performs a Mercury flyby
MESSENGER was a NASA robotic space probe that orbited the planet Mercury between 2011 and 2015, studying Mercury's chemical composition, geology, and magnetic field.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority members celebrate 100th anniversary by donating $1 million to scholarship funds at Howard Uni
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority members celebrate 100th anniversary by donating $1 million to scholarship funds at Howard University in Washington, D.C.
Canadian jockey Russell Baze rides his 10,000th career winner aboard Two Step Cat in 3rd race at Golden Gate Fields, Alb
Canadian jockey Russell Baze rides his 10,000th career winner aboard Two Step Cat in 3rd race at Golden Gate Fields, Albany, CA; prevails in a 3-horse photo finish
A major tornado outbreak across the Southern United States leaves at least 58 dead, the most since the May 31, 1985 outb
A major tornado outbreak across the Southern United States leaves at least 58 dead, the most since the May 31, 1985 outbreak that killed 88.
Nebraska bans electric chair as sole execution method
The electric chair is a specialized device used for capital punishment through electrocution.
In East Timor, assassination attempts made on independence activists Xanana Gusmao and Jose Ramos-Horta. Both fail.
In East Timor, assassination attempts made on independence activists Xanana Gusmao and Jose Ramos-Horta. Both fail.
Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd makes an historic apology to Indigenous Australians, especially to the Stolen Gener
Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd makes an historic apology to Indigenous Australians, especially to the Stolen Generations who suffered forced child removal and assimilation [1]
A gunman opens fire in a lecture hall at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb County, Illinois, killing six people, in
A gunman opens fire in a lecture hall at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb County, Illinois, killing six people, including himself, and injuring 18
50th Daytona 500: Ryan Newman wins shootout going into the final turn from Tony Stewart, and the Busch brothers, Kurt an
50th Daytona 500: Ryan Newman wins shootout going into the final turn from Tony Stewart, and the Busch brothers, Kurt and Kyle
Serzh Sargsyan wins the Armenian Presidential Election
Serzh Azati Sargsyan is an Armenian politician who served as the third President of Armenia from 2008 to 2018, and twice as the Prime Minister of Armenia from 2007 to 2008 and again from 17 to 23...
B-2 Spirit of the USAF crashes at Guam. Crew survives but aircraft written off, the most expensive air crash in human hi
B-2 Spirit of the USAF crashes at Guam. Crew survives but aircraft written off, the most expensive air crash in human history (aircraft alone cost $1.2Bn). B-2 had a perfect safety record before the crash; not one B-2 ever crashed.
Global Seed Vault officially opens in Svalbard, Norway, to help preserve diversity and loss from other genebanks
The Svalbard Global Seed Vault (Norwegian: Svalbard globale frøhvelv) is a secure backup facility for the world's crop diversity on the Norwegian island of Spitsbergen in the remote Arctic Svalbard...
Former PM of Thailand Thaksin Shinawatra is arrested on corruption charges after returning to Thailand following months
Former PM of Thailand Thaksin Shinawatra is arrested on corruption charges after returning to Thailand following months of exile
Riots in Yerevan, Armenia concerning the Armenian presidential election, 2008 come to a fatal end, with police forces cl
Riots in Yerevan, Armenia concerning the Armenian presidential election, 2008 come to a fatal end, with police forces clashing with civilians in their peaceful protest, resulting in 8 deaths.
Streaming service Hulu launches for public access in the United States
Streaming service Hulu launches for public access in the United States
Price of gold on the New York Mercantile Exchange hits $1,000.00 an ounce for the first time
Price of gold on the New York Mercantile Exchange hits $1,000.00 an ounce for the first time
Governor Eliot Spitzer of New York resigns after scandal involving a high-end prostitute; David Paterson becomes acting
Governor Eliot Spitzer of New York resigns after scandal involving a high-end prostitute; David Paterson becomes acting governor
GRB 080319B: A cosmic burst that is the farthest object visible to the naked eye is briefly observed
GRB 080319B: A cosmic burst that is the farthest object visible to the naked eye is briefly observed
French Swimmer Alain Bernard sets world record of 47.50 for 100m freestyle long course after winning the European LC Cha
French Swimmer Alain Bernard sets world record of 47.50 for 100m freestyle long course after winning the European LC Championships 2008
Bhutan officially becomes a democracy, with its first ever general election.
Bhutan officially becomes a democracy, with its first ever general election.
Aloha Airlines, a bankrupt airline, permanently ends passenger service
Skyway Airlines was an American ramp and aircraft ground handling services and catering company based in Oak Creek, Wisconsin.
New York Yankees set a MLB record by winning their 11th straight home opener, 3-2 against Toronto Blue Jays
New York Yankees set a MLB record by winning their 11th straight home opener, 3-2 against Toronto Blue Jays
Raid on Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints owned YFZ Ranch in Texas; 401 children and 133 women
Raid on Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints owned YFZ Ranch in Texas; 401 children and 133 women taken into state custody
World's first building to integrate wind turbines is completed in Bahrain
The Bahrain World Trade Center is a 240-metre-high (787 ft), 50-floor, twin tower complex located in Manama, Bahrain.
NBA owners give approval of a potential Seattle SuperSonics' relocation to Oklahoma City in a 28–2 vote by the Board of
NBA owners give approval of a potential Seattle SuperSonics' relocation to Oklahoma City in a 28–2 vote by the Board of Governors
The United States Air Force retires the F-117 Nighthawk stealth surface-attack aircraft
The Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk is a retired American single-seat, subsonic, twin-engined stealth attack aircraft developed by Lockheed's secretive Skunk Works division and operated by the United States...
NFL Draft: University of Michigan offensive tackle Jake Long first pick by Miami Dolphins
The 1997 NFL draft was the procedure by which National Football League teams selected amateur college football players. It is officially known as the NFL Annual Player Selection Meeting.
Heidi Klum launches her clothing line for Jordache
Heidi Klum is a German and American model, television host, actress, producer, and businesswoman.
The London Agreement on translation of European patents, concluded in 2000, enters into force in 14 of the 34 Contractin
The London Agreement on translation of European patents, concluded in 2000, enters into force in 14 of the 34 Contracting States to the European Patent Convention.
Chaiten Volcano erupts in Chile, forcing the evacuation of more than 4,500 people
Chaiten Volcano erupts in Chile, forcing the evacuation of more than 4,500 people
California becomes the second US state after Massachusetts in 2004 to legalize same-sex marriage after its Supreme Court
California becomes the second US state after Massachusetts in 2004 to legalize same-sex marriage after its Supreme Court rules a previous ban unconstitutional
International Court of Justice awards Middle Rocks to Malaysia and Pedra Branca (Pulau Batu Puteh) to Singapore, ending
International Court of Justice awards Middle Rocks to Malaysia and Pedra Branca (Pulau Batu Puteh) to Singapore, ending a 29-year territorial dispute
61st Cannes Film Festival: "The Class" directed by Laurent Cantet wins the Palme d'Or
The year 2008 involved many major film events. The Dark Knight was the year's highest-grossing film, while Slumdog Millionaire won the Academy Award for Best Picture (out of eight Academy Awards).
First Constituent Assembly of Nepal formally declares Nepal a republic, ending the 240-year reign of the Shah dynasty
Nepal is a multi-ethnic, multiracial, multicultural, multi-religious, and multilingual country.
A fire at the backlot of Universal Studios Hollywood destroys several icons from movies, such as Courthouse Square, the
A fire at the backlot of Universal Studios Hollywood destroys several icons from movies, such as Courthouse Square, the clock tower from Back to the Future, and the King Kong exhibit on the studio tour.
Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland formed as second-largest European national park, combining Skaftafell and Jökulsárg
Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland formed as second-largest European national park, combining Skaftafell and Jökulsárgljúfur parks and the Vatnajökull ice cap (World Heritage Site 2019) [1]
Akihabara massacre takes place on the crowded Sunday pedestrian-zoned Chūōdōri street in Tokyo, Japan, when a man uses a
Akihabara massacre takes place on the crowded Sunday pedestrian-zoned Chūōdōri street in Tokyo, Japan, when a man uses a truck and dagger to kill seven people and injure 11
Gora Prai airstrike by the US reportedly kills 11 Pakistani paramilitary troops and 8 Taliban fighters in Pakistan's tri
Gora Prai airstrike by the US reportedly kills 11 Pakistani paramilitary troops and 8 Taliban fighters in Pakistan's tribal areas
62nd Tony Awards: "In the Heights" (musical) & "August: Osage County" (play) win
The 62nd Tony Awards ceremony was held on June 15, 2008. The Antoinette Perry Awards for Excellence in Theatre, more commonly known as the Tony Awards, recognize achievement in live American theatre.
First day of legal same-sex marriage in California
Same-sex marriage has been legal in California since June 28, 2013. The State of California first issued marriage licenses to same-sex couples from June 16, 2008 to November 5, 2008, as a result of...
Félix Hernández of the Seattle Mariners hits a grand slam home run against New York Mets, 1st pitcher since Steve Dunnin
Félix Hernández of the Seattle Mariners hits a grand slam home run against New York Mets, 1st pitcher since Steve Dunning in 1971
Atlantis Plastics shooting, An employee shot and killed five people after an argument, which ended in the gunman's suici
Atlantis Plastics shooting, An employee shot and killed five people after an argument, which ended in the gunman's suicide in Henderson, Kentucky
NBA Draft: Memphis point guard Derrick Rose first pick by Chicago Bulls
Derrick Martell Rose is an American former professional basketball player. He played one year of college basketball for the Memphis Tigers before being drafted first overall by his hometown Chicago...
Thomas Beatie, the world's first pregnant man, gives birth to a daughter
Thomas Trace Beatie is an American public speaker, author, and advocate of transgender rights and sexuality issues, with a focus on transgender fertility and reproductive rights. Beatie came out as a...
Denmark is the first European economy to confirm it is in recession since the global credit crunch began; its GDP shrink
Denmark is the first European economy to confirm it is in recession since the global credit crunch began; its GDP shrinks 0.6% in the first quarter after a 0.2% contraction in the fourth quarter of 2007
A settlement is reached allowing former NBA franchise the Seattle SuperSonics to move to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; new ow
A settlement is reached allowing former NBA franchise the Seattle SuperSonics to move to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; new owner Clay Bennett agrees to pay City of Seattle $45 million to wriggle out of last 2 years of KeyArena lease
Former Macedonian Interior Minister Ljube Boškoski is acquitted of all charges by a UN Tribunal accusing him of war crim
Former Macedonian Interior Minister Ljube Boškoski is acquitted of all charges by a UN Tribunal accusing him of war crimes
Canadian harness racer John Campbell wins his 10,000th race as a driver by guiding 'Share the Delight' to victory in the
Canadian harness racer John Campbell wins his 10,000th race as a driver by guiding 'Share the Delight' to victory in the 6th race at Meadowlands Racetrack
Malaysian politician Anwar Ibrahim is arrested on sodomy charges in Malaysia
Anwar bin Ibrahim is a Malaysian politician who has served as the 10th prime minister of Malaysia since 2022.
Billy Joel performs last of two concerts dubbed "The Last Play at Shea"; the final concert event before demolition of th
Billy Joel performs last of two concerts dubbed "The Last Play at Shea"; the final concert event before demolition of the 1964 baseball stadium in Flushing Meadows, Queens, NYC; featured guests include Roger Daltrey, Tony Bennett, Garth Brooks, and Paul McCartney
Cape Verde joins the World Trade Organization, becoming its 153rd member
Cape Verde or Cabo Verde, officially the Republic of Cabo Verde, is an island country and archipelagic state in the central Atlantic Ocean off the coast of West Africa.
Historic Weston-super-Mare Grand Pier burns down for a second time in 80 years
Historic Weston-super-Mare Grand Pier burns down for a second time in 80 years
Russian-supported forces of the self-proclaimed Republic of South Ossetia attack Georgian villages, breaking a 1992 ceas
Russian-supported forces of the self-proclaimed Republic of South Ossetia attack Georgian villages, breaking a 1992 ceasefire agreement
A military junta led by Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz stages a coup in Mauritania, overthrowing President Sidi Ould Cheikh Abd
A military junta led by Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz stages a coup in Mauritania, overthrowing President Sidi Ould Cheikh Abdallahi
Russo-Georgian War: Georgia moves troops into the Russian-supported self-proclaimed republic of South Ossetia in respons
Russo-Georgian War: Georgia moves troops into the Russian-supported self-proclaimed republic of South Ossetia in response to aggression; first European war of the 21st century
Russia launches a full-scale land, air, and sea invasion of Georgia, referring to it as a "peace enforcement" operation
Russia launches a full-scale land, air, and sea invasion of Georgia, referring to it as a "peace enforcement" operation after Georgia responds to aggression from South Ossetia
US wins all three medals in women's fencing sabre event at the Beijing Olympics, the first US podium sweep of a fencing
US wins all three medals in women's fencing sabre event at the Beijing Olympics, the first US podium sweep of a fencing event since 1904; Mariel Zagunis wins gold ahead of Sada Jacobson and Rebecca Ward
Abhinav Bindra wins the men's 10 m air rifle at the Beijing Olympics, achieving the first individual Olympic gold medal
Abhinav Bindra wins the men's 10 m air rifle at the Beijing Olympics, achieving the first individual Olympic gold medal for India and the country's first gold medal in any Olympic event since 1980
A popular Chinese 1-2 in the 200 m butterfly at the Beijing Olympics with Liu Zige swimming a world record of 2:04.18 to
A popular Chinese 1-2 in the 200 m butterfly at the Beijing Olympics with Liu Zige swimming a world record of 2:04.18 to beat teammate Jiao Liuyang
American breaststroker Rebecca Soni avenges her defeat to Leisel Jones of Australia in the 100 m by swimming a world rec
American breaststroker Rebecca Soni avenges her defeat to Leisel Jones of Australia in the 100 m by swimming a world record of 2:20.22 to beat Jones in the 200 m at the Beijing Olympics
Australian women's 4 x 100 m medley relay team of Emily Seebohm, Leisel Jones, Jessicah Schipper, and Libby Trickett ups
Australian women's 4 x 100 m medley relay team of Emily Seebohm, Leisel Jones, Jessicah Schipper, and Libby Trickett upsets the United States to win the gold medal in a world record time of 3:52.69 at the Beijing Olympics
An American 1-2-3 in the 400 m hurdles at the Beijing Olympics; Angelo Taylor wins gold in 47.25 ahead of Kerron Clement
An American 1-2-3 in the 400 m hurdles at the Beijing Olympics; Angelo Taylor wins gold in 47.25 ahead of Kerron Clement and Bershawn Jackson
Britain's Victoria Pendleton beats Anna Mears in the women's cycling sprint final at the Beijing Olympics, with Great Br
Britain's Victoria Pendleton beats Anna Mears in the women's cycling sprint final at the Beijing Olympics, with Great Britain dominating the track by winning 7 of 10 gold medals
Russian long-distance swimmer Larisa Ilchenko wins inaugural women's open-water marathon (10 km) in 1:59:27.7 at the Bei
Russian long-distance swimmer Larisa Ilchenko wins inaugural women's open-water marathon (10 km) in 1:59:27.7 at the Beijing Olympics
After winning the event in Athens, Jamaican sprinter Veronica Campbell-Brown wins consecutive 200 m Olympic titles, beat
After winning the event in Athens, Jamaican sprinter Veronica Campbell-Brown wins consecutive 200 m Olympic titles, beating American Allyson Felix by 0.19 seconds in Beijing
American decathlete Bryan Clay wins 4 of the 10 events and finishes second in 2 others to dominate the field and take th
American decathlete Bryan Clay wins 4 of the 10 events and finishes second in 2 others to dominate the field and take the gold medal at the Beijing Olympics
Australian diver Matthew Mitcham wins the men's 10 m platform gold medal with a final dive at the Beijing Olympics, prev
Australian diver Matthew Mitcham wins the men's 10 m platform gold medal with a final dive at the Beijing Olympics, preventing the Chinese from winning every diving event and achieving the highest score for an individual dive in Olympic history (112.10)
Dániel Varga and Péter Biros score 3 goals each as Hungary wins the men's water polo gold medal at the Beijing Olympics,
Dániel Varga and Péter Biros score 3 goals each as Hungary wins the men's water polo gold medal at the Beijing Olympics, their third consecutive Olympic gold medal
Russia unilaterally recognizes the independence of the former Georgian breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia,
Russia unilaterally recognizes the independence of the former Georgian breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, prompting the Georgian government to sever diplomatic relations with Russia
The new Oklahoma City NBA franchise announces the team will be named the "Thunder" in reference to powerful storms in th
The new Oklahoma City NBA franchise announces the team will be named the "Thunder" in reference to powerful storms in the area
Haiti's government reports a death toll of at least 529 people as a result of flooding caused by Tropical Storm Hanna ar
Haiti's government reports a death toll of at least 529 people as a result of flooding caused by Tropical Storm Hanna around the northern port city of Gonaïves
Beaux Arts Trio (Menahem Pressler, piano; Daniel Hope, violin; Antonio Meneses, cello) performs its final concert after
Beaux Arts Trio (Menahem Pressler, piano; Daniel Hope, violin; Antonio Meneses, cello) performs its final concert after 53 years in Lucerne, Switzerland
US Government takes control of the two largest mortgage financing companies in the US, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac
The Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA), commonly known as Fannie Mae, is a United States government-sponsored enterprise (GSE) that has been a publicly traded company since 1968.
Latvia joins its northern neighbor Estonia in recession as GDP falls 0.2% in the second quarter from the first quarter,
Latvia joins its northern neighbor Estonia in recession as GDP falls 0.2% in the second quarter from the first quarter, when it fell 0.3%; property markets and construction have suffered in both Baltic states
Chris Sharma redpoints Jumbo Love at Clark Mountain, California, the world's first consensus 9b (5.15b) route
Chris Omprakash Sharma is an American rock climber who is considered one of the greatest and most influential climbers in the history of the sport.
Hurricane Ike makes landfall on the Texas Gulf Coast, causing heavy damage to Galveston Island, Houston and surrounding
Hurricane Ike makes landfall on the Texas Gulf Coast, causing heavy damage to Galveston Island, Houston and surrounding areas
International Astronomical Union names another dwarf planet, Haumea
Haumea (minor-planet designation: 136108 Haumea) is a dwarf planet located beyond Neptune's orbit.
Greg Maddux pitches his 5,000th career inning against the San Francisco Giants
Gregory Alan Maddux, also known as "Mad Dog" and "the Professor," is an American former professional baseball pitcher who played 23 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB), primarily with the Atlanta...
Thierry Henry scores his first goal for Barcelona in a 3–0 Champions League group stage win over Lyon
The knockout phase of the 2008–09 UEFA Champions League began on 24 February 2009 and concluded with the final at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome on 27 May 2009.
60th Emmy Awards: Mad Men, 30 Rock, Bryan Cranston & Glenn Close win
60th Emmy Awards: Mad Men, 30 Rock, Bryan Cranston & Glenn Close win
China launches its third human spaceflight, the spacecraft Shenzhou 7
Human spaceflight (also referred to as crewed spaceflight, or more historically manned spaceflight) is spaceflight with a crew or passengers aboard a spacecraft, often with the spacecraft being...
Swiss pilot and inventor Yves Rossy is the first person to fly a jet engine-powered wing across the English Channel
Yves Rossy is a Swiss military-trained pilot and an aviation enthusiast. He is known as the inventor of a series of experimental individual jet packs, the latest using carbon-fibre wings for flight.
Astronaut Zhai Zhigang becomes the first Chinese person to perform a spacewalk while flying on Shenzhou 7
Astronaut Zhai Zhigang becomes the first Chinese person to perform a spacewalk while flying on Shenzhou 7
Greg Maddux wins the 355th and final start of his career
Gregory Alan Maddux, also known as "Mad Dog" and "the Professor," is an American former professional baseball pitcher who played 23 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB), primarily with the Atlanta...
MLB Boston Red Sox retire Johnny Pesky's jersey number 6
The Boston Red Sox are an American professional baseball team based in Boston. The Red Sox compete in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a member club of the American League (AL) East Division.
American surfer Kelly Slater clinches his record 9th world championship after round 3 of the Billabong Pro in Mundaka, S
American surfer Kelly Slater clinches his record 9th world championship after round 3 of the Billabong Pro in Mundaka, Spain; he accrues enough points with 5 victories to win the title with 2 scheduled ASP Tour contests remaining to be surfed
Messenger spacecraft performs a second flyby of Mercury
MESSENGER was a NASA robotic space probe that orbited the planet Mercury between 2011 and 2015, studying Mercury's chemical composition, geology, and magnetic field.
Music, podcast, and video streaming service Spotify is launched by Daniel Ek and Martin Lorentzon
Spotify is a Swedish audio streaming and media service provider founded in April 2006 by Daniel Ek and Martin Lorentzon.
The Nobel Prize in Medicine or Physiology is awarded jointly to Harald zur Hausen for his work on the cause of cervical
The Nobel Prize in Medicine or Physiology is awarded jointly to Harald zur Hausen for his work on the cause of cervical cancer and Françoise Barré-Sinoussi and Luc Montagnier for the discovery of HIV
Singapore becomes the first Asian country to slip into a recession since the credit crisis begins as growth falters due
Singapore becomes the first Asian country to slip into a recession since the credit crisis begins as growth falters due to decreased demand for exports, a reduction in tourism, and the end of the real estate boom
HM Treasury infused £37 billion ($64 billion, 47 billion euros) of new capital-bailout into Royal Bank of Scotland Group
HM Treasury infused £37 billion ($64 billion, 47 billion euros) of new capital-bailout into Royal Bank of Scotland Group Plc, Lloyds TSB and HBOS Plc, to avert a financial sector collapse.
Iran attempts to create the world's largest sandwich (1,500 meters) but fails when crowds eat it before it can be measur
Iran attempts to create the world's largest sandwich (1,500 meters) but fails when crowds eat it before it can be measured
Google Play is launched, the official app store for the Android operating system
Android is an operating system based on a modified version of the Linux kernel and other open-source software, designed primarily for touchscreen-based mobile devices such as smartphones and tablet...
Joe Sakic scores his final career goal (#625) against the Edmonton Oilers
Joseph Steven Sakic born July 7, 1969) is a Canadian professional ice hockey executive and former player.
The banking group BNP Paribas states that Australia is in a risky position with regards to the global financial crisis a
The banking group BNP Paribas states that Australia is in a risky position with regards to the global financial crisis as foreign liabilities accounted for 60% of the nation's GDP
In the UK, 500,000 mortgage holders are left in negative equity after house prices drop 15% since the previous summer
In the UK, 500,000 mortgage holders are left in negative equity after house prices drop 15% since the previous summer
White Paper "Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System" is published by the pseudonymous Satoshi Nakamoto; it descr
White Paper "Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System" is published by the pseudonymous Satoshi Nakamoto; it describes a decentralized peer-to-peer network that could track and verify transactions while producing a transparent, verifiable record.
American "Deftones" bassist Chi Cheng (38) suffers serious injuries in an automobile crash in Santa Clara, California, a
American "Deftones" bassist Chi Cheng (38) suffers serious injuries in an automobile crash in Santa Clara, California, as a seatbelt-less passenger, dying 4-1/2 years later
RMS Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) sets sail from Southampton, England on her final voyage to Dubai
Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) is a retired British ocean liner. Built by John Brown & Company on the River Clyde in Scotland for the Cunard Line, the ship was operated as a transatlantic liner and cruise...
Equity research by Deutsche Bank states that Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines should not experience a r
Equity research by Deutsche Bank states that Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines should not experience a recession, despite potential harm to economic growth from falling commodity prices and possible weaker exports
After critical failures in the US financial system began to build up after mid-September, the Dow Jones Industrial Avera
After critical failures in the US financial system began to build up after mid-September, the Dow Jones Industrial Average reaches its lowest level since 1997
Patrick Roy's #33 jersey is retired by the Montreal Canadiens
Patrick Roy's #33 jersey is retired by the Montreal Canadiens
Economists at the University of Hawaii report that the state entered recession in the previous quarter based on the drop
Economists at the University of Hawaii report that the state entered recession in the previous quarter based on the drop in tourist figures and growing unemployment, with 8,800 jobs expected to be cut in 2009
A car bomb in St. Petersburg, Russia, kills three people and injures one
A car bomb in St. Petersburg, Russia, kills three people and injures one
Ten coordinated attacks by Pakistan-based terrorists kill 164 and injure more than 250 people in Mumbai, India
A series of 12 coordinated Islamist terrorist attacks, sometimes called 26/11, were carried out in Mumbai, India, from 26 to 29 November 2008 by 10 members of Lashkar-e-Taiba, a Pakistan-based...
Sweden technically enters a recession after experiencing a contraction of 0.1% in the second and third quarters
The Great Recession was a period of market decline in economies around the world that occurred from late 2007 to mid-2009, overlapping with the closely related 2008 financial crisis.
The US economy has been in recession since December 2007, the National Bureau of Economic Research announces today
In the United States, the Great Recession was a severe financial crisis combined with a deep recession.
American pin-up model Bettie Page (85) is hospitalized in critical condition after suffering a heart attack
American pin-up model Bettie Page (85) is hospitalized in critical condition after suffering a heart attack
Kirsty Williams is elected leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, becoming the first female leader of a political party
Kirsty Williams is elected leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, becoming the first female leader of a political party in Wales
Governor of Illinois, Rod Blagojevich, is arrested by federal officials for a number of alleged crimes, including attemp
Governor of Illinois, Rod Blagojevich, is arrested by federal officials for a number of alleged crimes, including attempting to sell the United States Senate seat being vacated by President-elect Barack Obama
Andrei Klepach, Deputy Economic Minister of Russia, states that Russia has entered a recession, with two quarters of con
Andrei Klepach, Deputy Economic Minister of Russia, states that Russia has entered a recession, with two quarters of contraction expected, meaning Russia will fall short of reaching the 6.8% growth forecast for 2008
74th Heisman Trophy Award: Sam Bradford, Oklahoma (QB)
74th Heisman Trophy Award: Sam Bradford, Oklahoma (QB)
Phil Jackson becomes the sixth coach in NBA history to win 1,000 games as Los Angeles Lakers beat Boston Celtics, 92-83
Phil Jackson becomes the sixth coach in NBA history to win 1,000 games as Los Angeles Lakers beat Boston Celtics, 92-83 at the Staples Center, Los Angeles
Israel launches Operation Cast Lead in the Gaza Strip, beginning with an airstrike that hits 100 targets in 220 seconds
Israel launches Operation Cast Lead in the Gaza Strip, beginning with an airstrike that hits 100 targets in 220 seconds killing around 250 people
NFL head coach Mike Shanahan is fired by the Denver Broncos
Michael Edward Shanahan ( SHAN-ə-han; born August 24, 1952) is an American former football coach, best known as the head coach of the Denver Broncos of the National Football League (NFL) from 1995 to...
Notable Deaths
death
Edmund Hillary dies
Edmund Hillary, New Zealand zealand mountaineer, known for new zealand mountaineer, died on 2008-01-11.
death
Bobby Fischer dies
Bobby Fischer, American chess grandmaster, known for american chess grandmaster, died on 2008-01-17.
death
Suharto dies
Suharto dies
death
Arthur C. Clarke dies
Arthur C. Clarke, English science fiction writer, known for british science fiction writer, died on 2008-03-19.
death
Sydney Pollack dies
Sydney Pollack, American filmmaker and actor, known for american filmmaker and actor, died on 2008-05-26.
death
Bo Diddley dies
Bo Diddley, American guitarist and singer, known for american guitarist and singer, died on 2008-06-02.
death
Estelle Getty dies
Estelle Getty, American actress, known for american actress, died on 2008-07-22. Estelle Gettleman, known professionally as Estelle Getty, was an American actress and comedian.
death
Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn dies
Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, Russian soviet-russian author and dissident, known for soviet-russian author and dissident, died on 2008-08-03.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happened in 2008?
- In 2008, there were 152 significant historical events. Notable events include A New Hampshire law legalizing civil unions for same-sex couples comes into effect, Australian pop diva Natalie Imbruglia (32) and "Silverchair" frontman Daniel Johns (28) announce their divorce stating ", "Breaking Bad," created by Vince Gilligan and starring Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul, premieres on AMC.
- Who died in 2008?
- 8 notable figures passed away in 2008, including Edmund Hillary dies, Bobby Fischer dies, Suharto dies.