April 8 has witnessed numerous significant events throughout history. Here are some notable occurrences:
217: Roman Emperor Caracalla was assassinated by his Praetorian Guard prefect, Marcus Opellius Macrinus, who then assumed power.
1820: The famed Venus de Milo statue was discovered on the Aegean island of Milos.
1864: The United States Senate passed the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, aiming to abolish slavery.
1904: France and the United Kingdom signed the Entente Cordiale, marking a significant improvement in Anglo-French relations and setting the stage for their alliance in World War I.
1913: The 17th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, mandating the direct popular election of U.S. senators, shifting from the previous method of selection by state legislatures.
1944: During World War II, Russian forces led by Marshal Fyodor Tolbukhin attacked German positions in Crimea, initiating a campaign that would eventually expel German troops from the region.
1974: Hank Aaron of the Atlanta Braves hit his 715th career home run, surpassing Babe Ruth's longstanding record.
2005: Over four million people paid their last respects to Pope John Paul II during his funeral in Vatican City.
These events highlight the diverse and impactful occurrences that have taken place on April 8 throughout history.
