1. In 1982, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was opened on December 8th to honor those who served and lost their lives in the Vietnam War. The memorial has become a popular attraction in Washington D.C., as it is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by American soldiers in the war.

2. On December 8, 1923, President Calvin Coolidge delivered his famous Christmas message to the nation via radio. This was the first-ever presidential radio address, and it set the standard for presidential communication with the American people.

3. December 8, 1935 marked the completion of the Hoover Dam. It is considered one of the greatest engineering feats in U.S. history, as it provides power and irrigation to millions of Americans.

4. In 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared war on Japan in response to the attack on Pearl Harbor. This event took place on December 7th, but it was on December 8th that the U.S. officially entered World War II.

5. December 8, 1886 was the birthdate of Diego Rivera, the famous Mexican artist. He is known for his large-scale murals that depict Mexican history and culture, and his work can be seen in many public spaces around the world, including the National Palace in Mexico City.