1. In 1738, Samuel Adams, revolutionary leader and signer of the Declaration of Independence, was born in Boston, Massachusetts. Adams played a crucial role in the American Revolution, helping to organize events such as the Boston Tea Party.

2. On October 8, 1813, the Battle of the Thames was fought in southwestern Ontario, Canada, during the War of 1812. The battle marked a key victory for American forces, as they defeated a combined British and Native American force under the leadership of Tecumseh.

3. The Great Boston Fire of 1872 broke out on October 8, destroying nearly 800 buildings and causing over $75 million in damage (equivalent to over $1.5 billion today). The fire spurred improvements in firefighting techniques and city planning in Boston and other major cities.

4. The Boston Red Sox won their first World Series in 86 years on October 8, 2004, defeating the St. Louis Cardinals in four games. The victory was particularly symbolic for Boston fans, who had endured decades of heartbreak and disappointment prior to the team's championship run.

5. On October 8, 2018, Massachusetts became the first state in the U.S. to implement a ban on the sale of flavored e-cigarettes and vaping products, in an effort to curb the growing epidemic of youth vaping. The ban was later lifted following legal challenges from the vaping industry.