1. On September 8, 1900, a massive hurricane hit New York City, causing extensive damage and claiming the lives of six people. The storm, which had already devastated Galveston, Texas, brought high winds and flooding to the city, causing widespread power outages and knocking down buildings.

2. September 8, 1974 marked the opening of the historic Metropolitan Opera House at Lincoln Center. Designed by architect Wallace K. Harrison, the building is known for its distinctive "sputnik" chandeliers and its acoustically superior auditorium, which has played host to some of the world's most renowned performers.

3. A significant milestone in the fight for marriage equality was reached on September 8, 2009, when Governor David Paterson signed legislation legalizing same-sex marriage in the state of New York. The bill, which took effect in July 2011, was seen as a major victory for LGBTQ rights advocates.

4. On September 8, 1960, the first televised debate between presidential candidates John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon was held in New York City. The debate, which was watched by an estimated 70 million viewers, is widely credited with setting a new standard for political discourse and helping to shape the outcome of the election.

5. September 8, 1926 was a momentous day in baseball history, as Yankees slugger Babe Ruth hit his record-breaking 50th home run of the season at the Polo Grounds in New York City. Ruth's feat helped to establish him as one of the greatest players in the history of the game and cemented the Yankees' dominance of Major League Baseball in the 1920s and 30s.