1497day.year
Vasco da Gama sets sail on the first direct European voyage to India.
In 1497, Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama sets sail from Lisbon on the first direct sea voyage from Europe to India, paving the way for a new era of global trade.
On July 8, 1497, Vasco da Gama departed Lisbon with a fleet of four ships, determined to find a maritime route to India.
His expedition rounded the Cape of Good Hope and navigated the Indian Ocean, relying on new navigational techniques.
Da Gama's successful arrival in Calicut in 1498 opened direct spice trade between Europe and Asia.
This voyage bypassed traditional overland routes controlled by Middle Eastern and Venetian merchants.
The expedition marked the beginning of European colonial and commercial dominance in the Indian Ocean.
It also established Portugal as a leading maritime power and transformed global trade networks.
1497
Vasco da Gama
1889day.year
The first issue of The Wall Street Journal is published.
The Wall Street Journal publishes its inaugural issue, marking the birth of a now-leading financial daily.
Founded by Charles Dow, Edward Jones, and Charles Bergstresser, The Wall Street Journal released its first issue on July 8, 1889. Initially a four-page daily focused on stock and bond prices, it quickly became essential reading for investors. Its concise style and timely data set a new standard in financial journalism. Over the years, it expanded coverage to broader business and global news. Today, it remains one of the world’s most influential newspapers, shaping economic discourse for millions.
1889
The Wall Street Journal
1932day.year
The Dow Jones Industrial Average reaches its lowest level of the Great Depression, closing at 41.22.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average plummets to its Depression-era nadir, closing at just 41.22.
On July 8, 1932, U.S. stock markets reflected the depths of the Great Depression as the Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at its all-time low of 41.22. This astonishing drop represented a loss of nearly 90% from its 1929 peak. The collapse eroded public confidence in financial institutions and led to widespread unemployment. Economists and policymakers studied this trough as a cautionary benchmark for market regulation. The low point preceded gradual reforms under President Roosevelt’s New Deal programs. The 41.22 mark remains a stark reminder of the Depression’s economic devastation.
1932
Dow Jones Industrial Average
Great Depression
1968day.year
The Chrysler wildcat strike begins in Detroit, Michigan.
The unexpected Chrysler wildcat strike erupted at Detroit plants in July 1968, disrupting auto production.
On July 8, 1968, thousands of Chrysler workers in Detroit initiated an unsanctioned 'wildcat' strike at key manufacturing plants, demanding better wages and working conditions. The walkout took management by surprise, halting production on major vehicle lines and drawing national attention to labor unrest in the auto industry. Unlike union-authorized strikes, this action was called spontaneously by rank-and-file workers, highlighting growing frustration with contract negotiations. After several tense days of negotiations, both sides agreed to a temporary settlement, but the strike underscored the power of grassroots labor movements. The event influenced future labor relations in American manufacturing and inspired similar actions at other automakers.
1968
Chrysler wildcat strike
Detroit, Michigan