1. On July 8, 1885, the town of South Bend experienced one of the deadliest train wrecks in Indiana history. A freight train collided with a passenger train, killing 24 people and injuring over 40 more.

2. In 1969, the first Indianapolis Pop Festival kicked off on July 8, featuring big-name acts like Jefferson Airplane, Joe Cocker, and the Grateful Dead.

3. July 8, 1776, marks the date that the Declaration of Independence was read aloud to General George Washington's troops in New York City, enshrining the United States' commitment to independence and self-determination.

4. On July 8, 1936, the Indiana State Fairgrounds Coliseum hosted a heavyweight boxing match between Joe Louis and Lee Ramage. Louis won by knockout in the second round, solidifying his status as one of the greatest boxers of all time.

5. The International Circus Hall of Fame, located in Peru, Indiana, was dedicated on July 8, 1959. The museum honors legendary circus performers and features exhibits on the history of the circus in Indiana and around the world.