Here are 5 interesting facts about January 8 in Iowa history:

1. On January 8, 1910, the Iowa State Capitol building was destroyed by a fire that started in the executive offices. The building was rebuilt and reopened in 1913.

2. On January 8, 1849, the Iowa Territory was divided into two parts, with the western part becoming the Nebraska Territory. The Iowa Territory had been established in 1838.

3. On January 8, 1864, the Battle of Springfield took place during the American Civil War. Confederate forces under General Marmaduke attacked the Union garrison but were repulsed after a fierce battle.

4. On January 8, 2008, Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama won the Iowa Caucuses, the first major political event of the 2008 presidential election. Obama's victory in Iowa helped launch him to the Democratic nomination and ultimately the presidency.

5. On January 8, 2011, the University of Iowa Hawkeyes football team won the Orange Bowl, defeating the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets 24-14. The victory gave the Hawkeyes their first BCS bowl win and a final ranking of #7 in the country.