1. On April 8, 1822, the first steam-powered ferry boat in Indiana, the "Cumberland," began operation across the Wabash River from Vincennes to Illinois. This innovation drastically reduced travel time and allowed for more efficient trade and transportation in the region.

2. Notable Hoosier composer and pianist, Hoagy Carmichael, was born on April 8, 1899 in Bloomington, Indiana. Carmichael went on to write many famous songs including "Stardust" and "Georgia on My Mind," and was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1971.

3. On April 8, 1935, Indiana experienced a devastating tornado outbreak that resulted in over 150 deaths and significant damage to cities like Lynn, Montpelier, and Muncie. This event remains one of the deadliest tornado outbreaks in the state's history.

4. Indiana Governor Frank O'Bannon signed into law a ban on smoking in most public places on April 8, 2003. This was a landmark decision and made Indiana the first tobacco-growing state to enact such a law.

5. Indiana University men's basketball team won the NCAA National Championship on April 8, 1987, defeating Syracuse 74-73 in the final game. This victory was the school's fifth NCAA championship and remains one of the most iconic moments in Hoosier sports history.