1. On December 8, 1865, the University of Minnesota was officially established. The university has grown to become the state's largest and most comprehensive educational institution.

2. The infamous "Grinch Gang" robbed a Minneapolis bank on December 8, 1929, netting over $1 million in cash and securities. The gang, which received its name due to their Christmas-time robbery, was eventually caught and sentenced to prison.

3. In 1980, Minnesota's Iron Range experienced a significant earthquake on December 8 measuring 3.5 on the Richter scale. Although there were no injuries or major damage, it was a rare event for the region.

4. On December 8, 1940, Norman Borlaug was awarded a Ph.D. in plant pathology from the University of Minnesota. Borlaug went on to become a renowned scientist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate for his work in developing disease-resistant crops that helped alleviate world hunger.

5. The Minnesota Vikings played their first-ever game on December 8, 1961, losing to the Chicago Bears 37-13 at Metropolitan Stadium in Bloomington. The team has since become a beloved symbol of Minnesota sports culture.