1. Elvis Presley's Birthday: January 8 marks the birthday of the King of Rock 'n' Roll, Elvis Presley. Although he was born in Tupelo, Mississippi, Elvis had a significant impact on North Carolina's music scene. He performed in several cities across the state, including Greensboro and Charlotte.

2. Battle of Cowpens: On January 8, 1781, the Battle of Cowpens took place in present-day Cherokee County, South Carolina, near the North Carolina border. The battle was a significant victory for American forces during the Revolutionary War and helped turn the tide of the war in the South.

3. North Carolina State University: January 8 is also the founding date of North Carolina State University. The university was established in 1887 as the North Carolina College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts and has since become a leading research institution in the state.

4. Outer Banks Shipwrecks: January 8, 1838, marked the tragic shipwreck of the schooner Home off the coast of the Outer Banks. The vessel was carrying a large number of passengers, including enslaved Africans being transported illegally to the United States. The shipwreck resulted in the deaths of nearly 100 people.

5. North Carolina's First Governor: On January 8, 1777, Richard Caswell was elected as North Carolina's first governor. Caswell had previously served as a military leader during the Revolutionary War and went on to serve three terms as governor, making him one of the most influential political figures in the state's early history.