1. On September 8, 1863, the Battle of Cumberland Gap took place during the Civil War. Union soldiers led by General Ambrose Burnside fought against Confederates led by General John W. Frazer. The Union captured the gap, an important strategic point in the region.

2. September 8, 1923, marks the date of the deadliest train accident in Tennessee's history. The collision occurred between two trains in Milford, and 10 people were killed, with more than 50 others injured.

3. Tennessee native Alex Haley was born on September 8, 1921. He is best known as the author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel "Roots," which chronicles his family's history from slavery to freedom in America.

4. On September 8, 1986, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park became a World Heritage Site. The park, spanning Tennessee and North Carolina, is known for its biodiversity and stunning natural beauty.

5. The Tennessee Titans played the franchise's first regular-season game on September 8, 1997, against the Oakland Raiders. The Titans won the game 24-21 and have since become a beloved NFL team among Tennessee residents.