1. On February 8, 1804, the United States Congress authorized the creation of the Louisiana Territory, which included present-day Missouri. This paved the way for Missouri to become a state in 1821.

2. The Battle of Springfield, a Civil War battle fought on February 8, 1862, marked a significant victory for the Union army. The battle took place in Springfield, Missouri, and resulted in the retreat of Confederate forces from the area.

3. On February 8, 1930, the Union Station in Kansas City, Missouri, was completed. At the time, it was the second-largest train station in the world and served as a major transportation hub for the region.

4. Missouri-born boxer Sonny Liston won the world heavyweight boxing championship on February 8, 1964, by defeating reigning champion Sonny Liston in Miami Beach, Florida. Liston was born in Sand Slough, Missouri, in 1932.

5. The Missouri Sports Hall of Fame, located in Springfield, Missouri, officially opened on February 8, 1994. It honors athletes, coaches, and sports professionals from Missouri who have made significant contributions to their respective sports.