June 8: Kanye, Tornadoes, and a Very Unhappy Printing Press

June 8 is one of those dates that makes you wonder if the universe has a flair for the dramatic. From volcanic eruptions that wouldn't quit to the birth of one of music's most polarizing figures, this day has consistently delivered throughout history.

Happy Birthday, Kanye

On June 8, 1977, the world received Kanye West, American rapper, producer, director, and fashion designer. Love him or find him exhausting, there's no denying that Kanye has left an indelible mark on hip-hop, fashion, and the art of the Twitter meltdown. He shares this special day with tennis legend Kim Clijsters, born in 1983, who won six Grand Slam tournament titles without once interrupting an awards ceremony. Also celebrating birthdays today: Javier Mascherano, the Argentinian footballer born in 1984, and Maria Menounos, American television personality and actress born in 1978.

When Iceland Decided to Spice Things Up

Back in 1783, the Laki volcanic fissure in Iceland began an eight-month eruption that redefined the term "commitment issues." This wasn't your quick-and-dirty volcanic event—Laki was in it for the long haul, triggering a major famine and causing widespread fluoride poisoning. Eight months! That's longer than most people stick with their gym memberships. The eruption had effects felt across Europe, proving that Iceland has been punching above its weight in terms of global impact for centuries.

The Types Riot: When Journalism Got Physical

In 1826, William Lyon Mackenzie learned the hard way that accusing powerful people of corruption can be hazardous to your printing press. Members of the Family Compact in York, Upper Canada, decided that the best response to Mackenzie's allegations wasn't a strongly worded letter to the editor, but rather destroying his entire printing press in what became known as the Types Riot. It was the 19th-century equivalent of getting ratioed on Twitter, except with more property damage and fewer emoji.

One Very Special Promotion

In 1950, Thomas Blamey became the only Australian to attain the rank of field marshal, which is basically the military equivalent of achieving EGOT status. It's a pretty exclusive club Down Under—membership of exactly one.