1877day.year
At Gilmore's Gardens in New York City, the first Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show opens.
The first Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show opened in New York City on May 8, 1877, showcasing purebred dogs and setting a national standard.
On May 8, 1877, the Westminster Kennel Club held its inaugural dog show at Gilmore’s Garden, marking the beginning of America's oldest continuously held sporting event. Organized by a group of New York sportsmen, the exhibition featured a modest selection of hounds and terriers judged on breed standards. Over the years, Westminster grew into a prestigious competition, attracting top breeders and thousands of spectators to Madison Square Garden. The show helped standardize dog breeds in the United States and promote responsible breeding practices. Its traditions, including the Best in Show award, became a benchmark for canine excellence. Today, Westminster remains a highlight of the dog-loving community and a testament to the enduring bond between humans and their canine companions.
1877
Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show
1919day.year
Edward George Honey proposes the idea of a moment of silence to commemorate the Armistice of 11 November 1918 which ended World War I.
In 1919, Edward George Honey proposed the first moment of silence to honor those fallen in World War I.
Australian journalist Edward George Honey suggested observing a moment of silence on May 8, 1919, in remembrance of soldiers who died during World War I. His proposal aimed to provide a solemn and universal form of tribute without religious connotations. The idea gained traction and eventually led to the annual observation on Armistice Day, now commemorated as Remembrance Day or Veterans Day. Honey's simple yet poignant gesture influenced global practices for war memorial ceremonies. Today, moments of silence are observed worldwide on various occasions to honor victims and support collective reflection. This enduring tradition highlights the power of silence in communal remembrance.
1919
Edward George Honey
Armistice of 11 November 1918
1933day.year
Mohandas Gandhi begins a 21-day fast of self-purification and launched a one-year campaign to help the Harijan movement.
In 1933, Mahatma Gandhi began a 21-day fast to support his Harijan campaign and promote social reform in India.
On May 8, 1933, Mohandas K. Gandhi embarked on a 21-day fast of self-purification to advocate for the Harijan movement, which sought to uplift India's marginalized 'untouchable' communities. The fast coincided with his one-year nationwide campaign to eradicate untouchability and promote social equality. Gandhi believed nonviolent self-suffering would awaken the conscience of oppressors and unite Hindus in reform. His fast drew widespread attention, influencing public opinion and pressuring local leaders to enact social changes. This act of peaceful protest underscored Gandhi's philosophy of satyagraha and transformed India's struggle for social justice. The fast remains a landmark event in India's journey toward independence and social harmony.
1933
Mohandas Gandhi
1945day.year
The Halifax riot starts when thousands of civilians and servicemen rampage through Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Celebratory crowds in Halifax turned into a destructive riot on VE Day, as servicemen and civilians looted and vandalized the city.
Thousands of servicemen and civilians in Halifax erupted into violence during VE Day celebrations, looting shops and property in what became known as the Halifax riot.
Frustrations over limited beer rations and wartime restrictions sparked clashes that required military intervention.
Barricades and troop deployments were necessary to restore order after windows were smashed and goods were stolen.
Over 60 people were arrested and several injured before calm returned to the city’s streets.
The riot exposed social tensions in Canada’s wartime home front and remains a cautionary tale of celebratory excess.
Halifax riot