May 8 has brought moments of triumph, courage, and extraordinary progress across war, science, civil rights, and art. These ten historical events—presented in chronological order—celebrate humanity’s resilience and ambition. Each includes a real, inspiring quote to encourage deeper reflection on what truly matters.
1. Joan of Arc Lifts the Siege of Orléans (1429)
On May 8, 1429, 17-year-old Joan of Arc led French troops to lift the English siege of Orléans, turning the tide of the Hundred Years’ War.
“Act, and God will act.”
~ Joan of Arc
2. Red Cross Founded (1863)
On May 8, 1863, the International Committee of the Red Cross was founded in Geneva, providing global humanitarian aid in times of war and disaster.
“What matters most is not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.”
~ Mother Teresa
3. Coca-Cola First Sold (1886)
On May 8, 1886, Coca-Cola was sold for the first time in Atlanta, Georgia, launching one of the most recognizable global brands.
“Ideas are the beginning points of all fortunes.”
~ Napoleon Hill
4. VE Day – Victory in Europe (1945)
On May 8, 1945, World War II ended in Europe after Germany’s unconditional surrender, leading to immense celebrations and the beginning of postwar rebuilding.
“We must build a kind of United States of Europe.”
~ Winston Churchill (excluded; using alternative)
“Peace is not merely a distant goal that we seek, but a means by which we arrive at that goal.”
~ Martin Luther King Jr.
5. World Health Organization Founded (1948)
On May 8, 1948, the WHO held its first World Health Assembly, committing to improve health and well-being for all people globally.
“It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver.”
~ Mahatma Gandhi (excluded; using alternative)
“To keep the body in good health is a duty… otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear.”
~ Buddha
6. Thomas Pynchon Born (1937)
On May 8, 1937, reclusive and brilliant American novelist Thomas Pynchon was born, known for works like Gravity’s Rainbow that challenged narrative and perception.
“If they can get you asking the wrong questions, they don’t have to worry about answers.”
~ Thomas Pynchon
7. First Ascent of Kangchenjunga (1955)
On May 8, 1955, British climbers George Band and Joe Brown made the first ascent of Kangchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain.
“Because it’s there.”
~ George Mallory (on why he climbed mountains)
8. Muhammad Ali Conviction Overturned (1971)
On May 8, 1971, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Muhammad Ali’s conviction for draft evasion, defending his right to protest on moral and religious grounds.
“He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life.”
~ Muhammad Ali
9. David Attenborough Born (1926)
On May 8, 1926, Sir David Attenborough was born. His documentaries helped the world fall in love with nature and inspired generations to protect it.
“No one will protect what they don’t care about; and no one will care about what they have never experienced.”
~ David Attenborough
10. Mount St. Helens Shows First Signs of Eruption (1980)
On May 8, 1980, Mount St. Helens emitted new warning signs of volcanic activity, which would culminate in a major eruption later that month.
“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.”
~ Lao Tzu
Final Reflections
May 8 reveals the many faces of human greatness: leading armies with divine belief, healing the sick, speaking truth to power, and climbing into the sky. These events remind us to act bravely, live purposefully, and never forget the deeper impact of our choices.
Every step forward—toward justice, health, or peace—begins with the quiet decision to care and the bold choice to act.
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