Historical Events on February 11: Significant Moments in History

Throughout history, certain dates stand out for the remarkable events that unfolded on them. From turning points in politics to cultural breakthroughs, these days often carry significance that echoes through time. Explore the most important events that occurred on February 11, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on February 11 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Vladimir Lenin Released from Siberian Exile: After serving a four-year exile in the remote Siberian village of Shushenskoye, Vladimir Lenin was finally freed. Accompanied by his wife, he embarked on a challenging 320-kilometer (200-mile) horseback journey to Ufa, arriving on February 18, 1900. This period of exile was crucial for Lenin, during which he wrote extensively on Marxist theory and developed his political ideology that would later shape the Russian Revolution.
1901 Death of Milan I, King of Serbia: Milan I Obrenović, a significant monarch in Serbian history, passed away at the age of 56. As a key figure in the late 19th-century Serbian political landscape, his death marked an important transition in the Serbian royal lineage. Milan I ruled Serbia during a complex period of national development, navigating challenging diplomatic relations with neighboring empires and working to establish Serbia's independence.
1902 UK-Japan Alliance Treaty: The United Kingdom announced the signing of a strategic treaty of alliance with Japan, pending parliamentary approval. The treaty aimed to preserve the territorial integrity of China and Korea, reflecting the complex geopolitical dynamics of the early 20th century.
1903 US Congress Passes Expedition Act: The US Congress adopts the Expedition Act, empowering the Attorney General to expedite anti-trust legal proceedings. This legislation reflects President Theodore Roosevelt's progressive 'trust busting' campaign, aimed at breaking up large corporate monopolies and promoting fair economic competition.
1904 Russian Naval Mishap at Port Arthur: During the Russo-Japanese War, the Russian torpedo boat Yenisei accidentally struck one of her own naval mines near Port Arthur, highlighting the dangerous and unpredictable nature of naval warfare in the early 1900s.
1905 Oregon Land Fraud Congressional Indictment: U.S. Representative J. N. Williamson was formally indicted on charges related to widespread land fraud in Oregon, highlighting significant political corruption in early 20th century American governance.
1906 Pope Pius X's Encyclical Against French Secularism: Pope Pius X published the encyclical 'Vehementer Nos' on February 11, 1906, strongly denouncing the 1905 French law on the Separation of Churches and the State. This document represented a significant moment of tension between the Catholic Church and the French government, reflecting the ongoing conflict between religious institutions and emerging secular governance models in early 20th-century Europe.
1907 Larchmont Shipwreck Tragedy: The passenger steamship Larchmont sank near Block Island after colliding with a coal schooner, resulting in a devastating maritime disaster. The collision occurred in harsh winter conditions, leading to the deaths of approximately 322 passengers and crew members. Only a small number of survivors, including the ship's captain, managed to escape the freezing waters.
1908 Australia Wins Ashes Cricket Match: Australia secured a decisive victory in the Ashes cricket series against England, winning by an impressive 308-run margin. This match was part of the historic cricket rivalry between the two nations, demonstrating Australia's cricket prowess in the early 20th century.
1909 Joseph Mankiewicz Birth: Joseph Mankiewicz, acclaimed American filmmaker known for the classic film 'All About Eve', was born in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.
1910 Jean-Baptiste Charcot's Antarctic Expedition Return: French explorer Jean-Baptiste Charcot and the crew of his ship Pourquoi Pas returned from their Antarctic expedition, arriving at Punta Arenas, Chile. Although they did not reach the South Pole, Charcot was celebrated for pushing further south than any previous expedition, marking a significant milestone in polar exploration.
1911 Establishment of Lincoln Memorial Commission: On February 11, 1911, the United States Congress officially established the Lincoln Memorial Commission. This pivotal governmental body was tasked with identifying and selecting an appropriate location for the proposed memorial honoring President Abraham Lincoln, a critical step in commemorating one of the most significant leaders in American history. The commission would ultimately play a crucial role in determining the iconic location on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., where the memorial would be constructed.
1912 Death of Machu Picchu's Early Discoverer: Agustín Lizárraga, the Peruvian explorer who first discovered Machu Picchu in 1902, predating the more famous American explorer Hiram Bingham's 1911 expedition, tragically died by drowning after falling from a bridge in Peru.
1913 Taishō Political Crisis in Japan: On February 11, 1913, a significant political upheaval erupted in Japan when Prime Minister Katsura Tarō and his entire cabinet resigned following massive public demonstrations in Tokyo. Tens of thousands of protesters had gathered to express their dissatisfaction with the government, signaling a critical moment of political tension and democratic expression during the Taishō period. This event highlighted growing public demand for political reform and challenged the traditional power structures of Japanese governance.
1914 High-Profile Divorce of Clarence Mackay and Katherine Mackay: Clarence Mackay, prominent president of the Postal Telegraph Cable Company, and his wife Katherine were granted a divorce in Paris, France. This event highlights the social dynamics and marital challenges among wealthy American business elites in the early 20th century.
1915 German Steamship Dacia Sold During World War I: During World War I, the German steamship S.S. 'Dacia', which was interned in the United States due to the ongoing conflict, was sold to Mr. Breitung, an American businessman. This transaction occurred during a period of significant maritime tensions, as many German vessels were immobilized in neutral ports to prevent their use in military operations.
1916 DUPE: German Naval Threat to Merchant Ships: Germany and Austria-Hungary officially notified the United States of their intention to sink any armed merchant ships starting March 1st, 1916. This declaration was a significant escalation in naval warfare during World War I and heightened tensions between Germany and the United States.
1917 Mata Hari Arrested for Espionage in Paris: On February 11, 1917, during the height of World War I, the famous exotic dancer and courtesan Mata Hari (born Margaretha Geertruida Zelle) was arrested in Paris on charges of being a double agent. She was accused of spying for Germany and passing military secrets to German intelligence, which was a serious offense during the wartime period. Her arrest would ultimately lead to her controversial trial and execution by firing squad later that year.
1918 German U-boat Sinks British Cargo Ship: German submarine SM U-53 conducted a maritime attack in the Atlantic Ocean, torpedoing and sinking the British cargo ship SS Merton Hall. The attack resulted in the tragic loss of 57 crew members, highlighting the deadly naval warfare during World War I.
1919 Friedrich Ebert Becomes First President of Weimar Republic: Friedrich Ebert of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) was elected as the first President of Germany by the Weimar National Assembly. He won a decisive victory, defeating his opponent Arthur von Posadowsky-Wehner with 277 votes to 49, marking a significant moment in Germany's transition to democratic governance after World War I.
1920 Idaho Ratifies 19th Amendment: Idaho officially ratified the 19th Amendment to the United States Constitution, which guaranteed women's right to vote. This was a significant milestone in the women's suffrage movement, bringing the state closer to nationwide female electoral participation.
1921 First Interview with Kaiser Wilhelm II Published: On February 11, 1921, the first interview with former German Emperor Kaiser Wilhelm II was published since his abdication at the end of World War I. This publication provided rare insights into the perspective of the deposed monarch after the dramatic political changes that followed Germany's defeat in the war.
1922 U.S.-Japan Diplomatic Agreement: Secretary of State Charles Evans Hughes and Baron Kijūrō Shidehara, Japan's Ambassador to the United States, signed a diplomatic agreement at the U.S. Department of State, representing an important moment in early 20th-century international relations.
1923 No Significant Historical Record: No verifiable historical event was found for February 11, 1923 in the available sources. Further research may be needed to confirm any notable occurrences on this specific date.
1924 Senate Demands Removal of Edwin Denby in Teapot Dome Scandal: On February 11, 1924, the United States Senate voted 47 to 34, calling on President Calvin Coolidge to remove Secretary of the Navy Edwin Denby due to his involvement in the notorious Teapot Dome scandal. This political controversy involved the improper leasing of federal oil reserves to private companies, representing a significant moment of governmental corruption and accountability in the early 20th century.
1925 Death of Aristide Bruant, Iconic French Cabaret Performer: Aristide Bruant, a renowned French singer, songwriter, and legendary nightclub owner, passed away on February 11, 1925. Known for his distinctive style and influential role in the Parisian cabaret scene of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Bruant was a pivotal figure in the artistic and cultural landscape of Montmartre. He was particularly famous for performing at the iconic Le Chat Noir cabaret and for his distinctive performances that often featured satirical and socially critical songs about working-class life in Paris.
1926 Paul Bocuse Birth: Paul Bocuse, a legendary French chef who revolutionized culinary arts and is considered a pioneer of nouvelle cuisine, was born in Collonges-au-Mont-d'Or, France.
1927 Tragic Billy Gaffney Kidnapping: Billy Gaffney, a 4-year-old boy, was kidnapped while playing near his apartment building at 99 Fifteenth Street in Brooklyn. The child was never found. More than eight years later, convicted child murderer Albert Fish confessed to abducting and murdering young Gaffney, revealing a horrific crime that shocked the community.
1928 II Olympic Winter Games in St. Moritz: The 2nd Winter Olympic Games were held in St. Moritz, Switzerland from February 11 to February 19, 1928. This international sporting event brought together winter athletes from around the world to compete in various winter sports disciplines.
1929 Lateran Treaty Establishes Vatican City: The Lateran Treaty was signed between the Kingdom of Italy and the Holy See, creating Vatican City as the world's smallest sovereign state. This historic agreement resolved long-standing tensions between the Italian government and the Catholic Church, granting the Pope full sovereignty over the Vatican territory within Rome.
1930 No Notable Historical Events Recorded: While no specific significant historical events were documented for February 11, 1930, this date falls within the interwar period between World War I and World War II. During this time, global political, economic, and social dynamics were evolving, with rising tensions in Europe and economic challenges following the Great Depression.
1931 Philip Snowden's Economic Warning to Parliament: Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Snowden delivered a stark and sobering address to the House of Commons, highlighting the severe economic challenges facing Britain. He emphasized the critical state of the national budget, warning that unprecedented unemployment levels were placing extraordinary strain on the country's financial stability. Snowden stressed that without drastic measures, both budget equilibrium and industrial progress were at serious risk.
1932 Mussolini's First Vatican Visit: On the third anniversary of the Lateran Treaty, Fascist Italian leader Benito Mussolini made his inaugural visit to the Vatican, meeting Pope Pius XI. This significant diplomatic encounter symbolized the reconciliation between the Italian state and the Catholic Church after decades of tension.
1933 Uneventful Day in 1933: While no specific major historical events were recorded for February 11, 1933, this period was part of the challenging early years of the Great Depression in the United States. During this time, President Franklin D. Roosevelt was preparing to implement his New Deal policies to address the economic crisis that had gripped the nation since the stock market crash of 1929.
1934 Heimwehr Leader Supports Chancellor Dollfuß in Pre-Authoritarian Austria: On February 11, 1934, Emil Frey, the leader of the Heimwehr (a right-wing paramilitary organization in Austria), publicly declared support for Chancellor Engelbert Dollfuß during a significant political meeting in Lower Austria. This declaration signaled growing alignment between paramilitary forces and the government, which was moving towards an authoritarian model. Frey's statement suggested imminent political action and hinted at the potential for direct intervention by paramilitary groups in Austria's political landscape.
1935 Abyssinia Crisis Escalation: On February 11, 1935, Benito Mussolini dramatically escalated tensions in the Abyssinian conflict by mobilizing 250,000 soldiers and dispatching 50 planes to Eritrea, signaling Italy's aggressive imperial ambitions in East Africa.
1936 Laura Knight First Woman in Royal Academy: Dame Laura Knight made history by becoming the first woman appointed to the prestigious Royal Academy, marking a significant milestone for women artists in the United Kingdom and challenging traditional artistic institutions.
1937 Flint Sit-Down Strike Ends with UAW Victory: The historic 44-day sit-down strike at General Motors in Flint, Michigan concluded with a landmark labor relations breakthrough. The United Auto Workers (UAW) successfully compelled General Motors to recognize the union as the exclusive bargaining agent for its employees, marking a pivotal moment in American labor rights and industrial relations.
1938 Hitler Demands Austrian Annexation: Austrian Chancellor Kurt von Schuschnigg meets with Adolf Hitler in Berchtesgaden, Bavaria. Hitler demands that Austria become a German protectorate, effectively pressuring Schuschnigg to sign an agreement that would pave the way for the Anschluss (annexation of Austria into Nazi Germany).
1939 Soviet Union Launches Invasion of Finland: In a major military escalation, approximately 140,000 Soviet troops launched an attack on Finnish defensive positions. This invasion was part of the broader geopolitical tensions leading up to World War II, known as the Winter War, where the Soviet Union attempted to annex Finnish territory through military force.
1940 Soviet Breakthrough in Winter War: Russian (Soviet) forces successfully breached the main Finnish defensive line during the Winter War, marking a significant military advancement against Finnish resistance. This event represented a critical moment in the conflict between the Soviet Union and Finland, demonstrating the Soviet military's strategic capabilities.
1941 Rommel Arrives in Tripoli: Lieutenant General Erwin Rommel, the famous German military commander known as the "Desert Fox", arrived in Tripoli, signaling the beginning of his North African campaign during World War II.
1942 Battle of Bukit Timah in Singapore during World War II: The second day of the Battle of Bukit Timah was fought in Singapore, representing a critical moment in the Japanese invasion of British-controlled Malaya and Singapore during World War II.
1943 Eisenhower Appointed Supreme Allied Commander in Europe: During a critical phase of World War II, General Dwight D. Eisenhower was selected to command the Allied armies in Europe, a pivotal leadership role that would significantly impact the strategic direction of the war against Nazi Germany.
1944 German Capture of 'The Factory' at Anzio: At the critical Anzio beachhead, German forces captured a strategic location known as 'The Factory' from the British 1st Division, marking a significant tactical victory in the complex Italian theater of World War II.
1945 Yalta Conference: Major Allied Powers Meet to Discuss Post-War World Order: President Franklin D. Roosevelt, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, and Soviet leader Joseph Stalin convened at the Yalta Conference to negotiate the post-World War II geopolitical landscape. The leaders discussed the reorganization of Europe, the fate of liberated territories, and strategies for ending the war against Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan.
1946 Bombing of Dresden Begins: The devastating bombing of Dresden commenced, with Allied air forces set to drop a total of 3,900 tons of high-explosive bombs and incendiary devices over the next three days, resulting in massive destruction of the German city.
1947 Chinese Government Economic Stabilization Efforts: In a significant economic policy announcement, President Chiang Kai-shek ordered comprehensive economic measures aimed at addressing the severe economic challenges facing post-war China. The government's strategy focused on combating hyperinflation and suppressing widespread black market activities that were destabilizing the national economy. These measures were critical in the context of China's ongoing political and economic turmoil following World War II and the imminent Chinese Civil War.
1948 Ceylon Gains Independence: Ceylon (later known as Sri Lanka) achieved independence from British colonial rule, becoming a sovereign nation within the British Commonwealth, with King George VI continuing as the monarch.
1949 Communist Assassination Plot Foiled in Seoul: Seoul metropolitan police arrested three Communists who were allegedly planning to assassinate members of the United Nations Commission on Korea and top Korean government officials, highlighting the political tensions of the post-World War II era.
1950 McCarthy's Communist Accusations: Senator Joseph McCarthy escalated his anti-communist campaign by sending a provocative telegram to President Harry S. Truman, alleging the presence of 57 Communists within the State Department. McCarthy demanded a comprehensive investigation and disclosure of potential communist infiltration in the government, further intensifying the Cold War era's political tensions.
1951 Kwame Nkrumah's Historic Parliamentary Election Victory: On February 11, 1951, Kwame Nkrumah, a pivotal figure in Ghana's independence movement, won the first parliamentary election in the Gold Coast (pre-independence Ghana). This election was a crucial milestone in the country's journey towards self-governance and eventual independence, marking a significant moment in African decolonization history.
1952 Death of Matija Murko, Prominent Yugoslav Scholar: Matija Murko, a distinguished Yugoslav scholar known for his significant contributions to Slavic studies and ethnography, passed away on February 11, 1952. Murko was renowned for his extensive research on Slavic folklore, literature, and cultural history, making substantial academic contributions that helped preserve and understand the rich cultural heritage of the South Slavic peoples.
1953 Rosenberg Clemency Denied: U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower denied all appeals for clemency for Julius and Ethel Rosenberg, two American citizens convicted of espionage for passing nuclear secrets to the Soviet Union during the Cold War.
1954 6th Annual Emmy Awards Ceremony in Los Angeles: On February 11, 1954, the 6th Annual Emmy Awards were held in Los Angeles, California, with legendary television host Ed Sullivan presiding over the event. The ceremony recognized outstanding achievements in television programming, with notable awards including Best Audience Participation, Quiz, or Panel Program being presented to two iconic shows: 'This Is Your Life' and 'What's My Line?'. This event highlights the growing popularity and cultural significance of television entertainment in the mid-1950s.
1955 US Billboard Chart Topper: 'Melody of Love' by the Four Aces reached the number one position on the US music charts, representing the popular musical taste of mid-1950s America.
1956 British Spies Resurface in Soviet Union: Guy Burgess and Donald Maclean, two British diplomats who had been part of the infamous Cambridge Five spy ring, reappeared in the Soviet Union after being missing for five years. Their defection was a significant Cold War espionage event that highlighted the tensions between the United Kingdom and the Soviet Union.
1957 US Diplomatic Communication with Israel: US Secretary of State John Foster Dulles presented an official aide-memoire to Israeli Ambassador Abba Eban, signaling an important diplomatic exchange during the complex geopolitical landscape of the 1950s Middle East.
1958 Egypt and Syria Form United Arab Republic: Egypt and Syria announced the formation of the United Arab Republic, a significant political union signed by President Quwatli of Syria and President Nasser of Egypt at the Koubba Palace in Cairo. This union represented a major moment in Pan-Arab nationalism and regional geopolitics.
1959 Project Mercury Recovery Planning: NASA and the U.S. Navy held the first formal meeting of the Project Mercury Committee, focusing on search and recovery operations for space missions, which was crucial for the early stages of the American space program.
1960 Classified Military Information Disclosure: Lt. Gen. Arthur G. Trudeau, chief of research for the United States Army, accidentally revealed classified information during a press conference, discussing the potential of atomic explosions to neutralize hydrogen bombs through neutron flux principles.
1961 Adolf Eichmann Trial Begins: The landmark trial of Nazi war criminal Adolf Eichmann commenced in Jerusalem, Israel. A key architect of the Holocaust, Eichmann was captured in Argentina and brought to trial, representing a significant moment of post-World War II justice and Holocaust remembrance.
1962 France-Algeria Independence Negotiations Begin: Negotiations between the French government and Algerian independence leaders commenced in Les Rousses, a remote village in the French Alps. These critical talks aimed to establish a framework for Algeria's transition to independence, marking a pivotal moment in decolonization efforts.
1963 The Beatles Record Debut Album 'Please Please Me': The Beatles record 10 tracks for their first album 'Please Please Me' at Abbey Road Studios in a single, intensive 13-hour recording session. This pivotal moment marks the beginning of the band's legendary recording career and their transformation into global music icons.
1964 The Beatles' First US Concert: On February 11, 1964, The Beatles made their groundbreaking first live concert appearance in the United States at the Washington, DC Coliseum. The event was a massive cultural milestone, drawing approximately 20,000 enthusiastic fans who witnessed the British rock band's initial public performance on American soil. This concert marked the beginning of the 'British Invasion' in American popular music and significantly influenced the cultural landscape of the 1960s.
1965 UK Cancels Major Defense Projects: British Prime Minister Harold Wilson informed the House of Commons about the Cabinet's decision to cancel three significant defense projects: the Armstrong Whitworth AW.681, Hawker Siddeley P.1154, and British Aircraft Corporation TSR-2, marking a substantial restructuring of military procurement.
1966 Deadly Ski Resort Fire in Japan: A catastrophic fire breaks out at two ski resorts in Numata, Japan, resulting in a tragic loss of 31 lives. This devastating incident likely prompted significant discussions about fire safety regulations in recreational facilities.
1967 Burgess Ice Rise lying off the west coast of Alexander Island, Antarctica is first mapped by the British Antarctic Survey (BAS).
1968 Israeli-Jordanian Border Tensions: Clashes occurred along the Israeli-Jordanian border, reflecting the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East during the late 1960s. These border incidents were part of the broader regional instability following the 1967 Six-Day War.
1969 Diana Crump becomes first US woman jockey to ride against men, Hialelah.
1970 Japan Launches First Satellite Ōsumi: Japan successfully launched the Ōsumi satellite using a Lambda-4 rocket, becoming the fourth nation in the world to independently place a satellite into orbit. This milestone marked a significant achievement in Japan's space exploration and technological capabilities.
1971 Seabed Arms Control Treaty Signed: During the Cold War, the Seabed Arms Control Treaty was opened for signature, outlawing nuclear weapons on the ocean floor in international waters. This significant diplomatic effort involved 87 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and Soviet Union, aiming to prevent the militarization of the world's seabeds and reduce potential nuclear escalation.
1972 US Airlines Implement Security Measures: In response to growing security concerns, US airlines began mandatory passenger and baggage inspections, marking a significant shift in air travel security protocols.
1973 First American POWs Released from Vietnam: During the Vietnam War, the first group of American prisoners of war were released from captivity in Vietnam, marking a significant moment in the conflict's resolution and the eventual end of U.S. military involvement.
1974 Kissinger's Project Independence: US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger unveiled the Nixon Administration's comprehensive seven-point 'Project Independence' plan, aimed at achieving US energy self-sufficiency and reducing dependence on foreign oil sources in response to global energy challenges.
1975 Margaret Thatcher Wins Conservative Party Leadership: On February 11, 1975, Margaret Thatcher defeated Edward Heath in a significant leadership contest for the British Conservative Party, marking a pivotal moment in British political history. Her victory represented a major breakthrough for women in top-level political leadership, setting the stage for her future role as Prime Minister.
1976 Clifford Alexander Jr. Confirmed as First Black Army Secretary: On February 11, 1976, Clifford Alexander Jr. made history by being confirmed as the first African-American Secretary of the United States Army. This landmark appointment represented a significant milestone in racial representation and diversity within the U.S. military leadership, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of African-American military and government leaders.
1977 Tragic Helicopter Crash Kills Queen Alia of Jordan: Queen Alia of Jordan, the 28-year-old wife of King Hussein, was killed in a devastating helicopter crash. The accident also claimed the lives of the Health Minister Mohammed al-Beshir, the pilot, and a Jordanian Air Force medic, shocking the Jordanian nation.
1978 Anatoli Sharansky's Imprisonment: Soviet dissident Anatoli Sharansky was sentenced to 13 years in prison on controversial espionage charges, sparking international condemnation and highlighting the human rights challenges in the Soviet Union during the Cold War era.
1979 Iranian Revolution: Khomeini Seizes Power: In a pivotal moment of political transformation, Iran's premier Shapour Bakhtiar resigns, allowing Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini to seize power and fundamentally reshape the country's political landscape. The Iranian military steps aside, enabling the establishment of an Islamic theocracy that would dramatically alter Iran's governance and international relations.
1980 Nazi Gestapo Officers Convicted for Holocaust Crimes: In a landmark legal proceeding, three former Nazi Gestapo officers were sentenced to prison terms after being found guilty of their role in the systematic murder of 70,000 Jewish people during the Holocaust. This trial represents an ongoing effort to hold Nazi war criminals accountable for their heinous actions, even decades after World War II.
1981 Soviet Military Leadership Decimated in Plane Crash: A Tupolev Tu-104 aircraft carrying 70 Soviet military officers crashed during takeoff from Leningrad to Vladivostok, resulting in the complete loss of all passengers. The catastrophic incident claimed the lives of 24 high-ranking admirals and generals, including Admiral Emil Spiridonov, Commander of the Soviet Pacific Fleet, and Lt. Gen. Georgi Pavlov, Commander of the Pacific Air Wing. The Soviet government delayed acknowledging the tragedy for four days.
1982 Ozzie Smith and Garry Templeton Trade: The trade between the St. Louis Cardinals and the San Diego Padres, where Ozzie Smith was exchanged for Garry Templeton, was finalized on February 11, 1982. This trade would prove pivotal for both players' careers, with Smith becoming a Hall of Fame shortstop for the Cardinals.
1983 Total Eclipse of the Heart Single Release: Bonnie Tyler releases the iconic power ballad 'Total Eclipse of the Heart', composed by Jim Steinman, which would become a massive international hit and a defining song of the 1980s.
1984 First Untethered Space Walk: Astronauts Bruce McCandless II and Robert L. Stewart made history on February 11, 1984, by performing the first untethered spacewalk using the Manned Maneuvering Unit (MMU), a groundbreaking achievement in human spaceflight.
1985 Jordan-PLO Diplomatic Accord: King Hussein of Jordan and Palestinian Liberation Organization leader Yasser Arafat signed a significant diplomatic accord, representing an important moment of potential cooperation and dialogue in the complex Middle Eastern political landscape.
1986 Anatoly Scharansky Released from Soviet Union: Prominent human rights activist Anatoly Scharansky was released by the Soviet Union after years of imprisonment, marking a significant moment in Cold War-era human rights advocacy. Scharansky, a Jewish dissident who had been advocating for Soviet Jews' right to emigrate, was finally allowed to leave the country after intense international pressure.
1987 Philippines Adopts New Constitution: The new Constitution of the Philippines officially goes into effect, marking a significant political transition following the end of the Marcos era and establishing a democratic framework for governance.
1988 Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy Appointed: Anthony M. Kennedy was confirmed as an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court, filling a crucial judicial position. Kennedy, nominated by President Ronald Reagan, would go on to become a pivotal swing vote on many landmark cases over his three-decade tenure, significantly influencing American constitutional law.
1989 Soviet War in Afghanistan Concludes: The Soviet Union officially announced the complete withdrawal of its troops from Afghanistan, marking the end of a decade-long military intervention that significantly impacted global geopolitics.
1990 Nelson Mandela's Release from Prison: Nelson Mandela was released from Victor Verster Prison near Cape Town, South Africa, after spending 27 years as a political prisoner. This momentous event marked a critical turning point in South Africa's struggle against apartheid and signaled the beginning of a new era of political transformation.
1991 Founding of UNPO in The Hague: The Unrepresented Nations and Peoples Organization (UNPO) was established in The Hague, Netherlands, as an international organization dedicated to representing indigenous peoples, minorities, and unrecognized nations seeking self-determination and political representation.
1992 Maastricht Treaty Signed, Establishing European Union: The Maastricht Treaty was signed, marking a pivotal moment in European integration by formally establishing the European Union. This treaty laid the groundwork for deeper political and economic cooperation among European nations, introducing concepts like European citizenship and paving the way for the eventual adoption of the euro currency.
1993 Janet Reno Nominated as U.S. Attorney General: President Bill Clinton nominates Janet Reno for the position of U.S. Attorney General, marking a significant moment in American judicial leadership and gender representation in high-level government roles.
1994 Space Shuttle STS-60 Lands: Space Shuttle Discovery (Mission STS-60) successfully completes its mission and lands at Kennedy Space Center, marking another milestone in NASA's space exploration efforts.
1995 Space Shuttle Discovery STS-63 Mission Lands: The Space Shuttle Discovery (mission STS-63) successfully completes its mission and lands, marking another milestone in NASA's space exploration efforts.
1996 46th NBA All-Star Game: The 46th NBA All-Star Game took place in San Antonio, with the Eastern Conference team defeating the Western Conference team 129-118 in an exciting display of basketball talent.
1997 STS-82 Space Shuttle Mission Launch: Space Shuttle Discovery (mission STS-82) launched on a critical mission to service and upgrade the Hubble Space Telescope, representing a significant moment in space exploration.
1998 Monica Lewinsky Interview Offer: KVBC-FM radio station in Las Vegas proposed a substantial $5 million offer to Monica Lewinsky for an exclusive interview, highlighting the intense media interest surrounding the Clinton-Lewinsky scandal.
1999 Devastating Earthquake in Afghanistan: A powerful magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck Afghanistan on February 11, 1999, causing significant loss of life and widespread destruction. The disaster resulted in 70 fatalities, 500 injuries, over 14,000 people left homeless, and approximately 7,000 houses destroyed.
2000 George W. Bush Campaign Trail in South Carolina: Republican presidential candidate George W. Bush continued his campaign efforts in South Carolina, engaging with media on his campaign plane. During a campaign stop in Charleston, he playfully rolled oranges down the aisle, showcasing his informal and approachable campaign style.
2001 Anna Kournikova Computer Virus Outbreak: A Dutch programmer launched a notorious computer virus disguised as a photo of tennis star Anna Kournikova, which rapidly spread through email systems worldwide, infecting millions of computers and highlighting the growing cybersecurity vulnerabilities of the early internet era.
2002 British Telecommunications Patent Lawsuit: British Telecommunications plc initiated a significant US federal court case, asserting a controversial patent that allegedly grants the company a monopoly in web-link technology. This legal action represented a pivotal moment in the ongoing technological and intellectual property disputes of the early internet era.
2003 U.S. Military Mobilization for Iraq: Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld signed deployment orders to send an additional 62,000 U.S. military personnel to the Persian Gulf, bringing the total military presence in the region to approximately 122,000 troops in preparation for potential conflict with Iraq.
2004 Bush Warns of Terrorist Attack Risks: President George W. Bush delivered a speech at the National Defense University, emphasizing the critical threat of potential nuclear, radiological, chemical, or biological terrorist attacks against the United States.
2005 Mass Iranian Protest Against Potential U.S. Strike: Approximately two million Iranians protested against a potential U.S. military strike aimed at preventing Iran's nuclear weapon development. Top U.S. military officials denied any plans for such an intervention.
2006 White House Knew About Katrina Flooding: Revelations emerged that the White House was aware of the extensive flooding in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina's aftermath. Michael Brown, former FEMA head, testified to a Senate Committee that he had informed the White House about the situation's severity before media coverage.
2007 Doubts Emerge About Iraqi Leadership: A National Intelligence Estimate revealed significant concerns about Iraq's leadership, suggesting the government is too weak to maintain national unity and the military is ineffective against militias.
2008 9/11 Terrorism Prosecution: The United States initiated legal proceedings against six alleged al-Qaeda operatives, including Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, for their involvement in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for war crimes.
2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Compromise: The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives reach a critical compromise on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, a key legislative response to the 2008-2009 financial crisis.
2010 Iran Declares Nuclear Capability: Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad announced that Iran had achieved a 20% uranium enrichment rate, declaring the country a nuclear state. This proclamation significantly escalated international tensions regarding Iran's nuclear program.
2011 Egyptian Revolution: Mubarak's Resignation: The first wave of the Arab Spring culminates in the resignation of Hosni Mubarak after 18 days of widespread protests, marking a pivotal moment in Egypt's modern political history. Mubarak's 30-year authoritarian rule ends with the transfer of power to the Supreme Military Council, led by Mohamed Hussein Tantawi.
2012 Arab Spring Uprising: A widespread series of pro-democracy protests and revolutionary movements sweeping across multiple Middle Eastern and North African countries, challenging authoritarian regimes and demanding political reforms, human rights, and economic opportunities.
2013 Pope Benedict XVI Resignation Announcement: The Vatican officially confirmed that Pope Benedict XVI would resign from the papacy due to his advanced age, marking a rare and historic moment in papal history.
2014 Historic China-Taiwan Governmental Meetings: After a 65-year gap, the first governmental meetings took place between the People's Republic of China and the Republic of China (Taiwan), marking a significant diplomatic breakthrough in cross-strait relations.
2015 Obama Seeks ISIS Authorization: President Obama formally requested congressional authorization for a three-year campaign against ISIS, proposing a strategy that includes airstrikes and limited ground troop deployment.
2016 First Direct Observation of Gravitational Waves: The LIGO Scientific Collaboration announced the first direct observation of gravitational waves, a groundbreaking scientific discovery confirming a major prediction of Einstein's general theory of relativity.
2017 Trump Proposes New Immigration Order: President Donald Trump suggested creating a 'brand new' immigration order after his previous executive order restricting entry from seven majority-Muslim nations was defeated in court, promising enhanced security measures.
2018 India's Massive Healthcare Initiative: The Indian government announced an ambitious healthcare plan to provide free medical coverage to 500 million people, representing one of the largest healthcare initiatives in global history aimed at improving access to medical services for a significant portion of the population.
2019 Unusual Winter Storm in Hawaii: An extraordinary winter storm struck Hawaii, bringing snow to record low elevations at Polipoli State Park. The storm also generated massive waves, coastal flooding, and strong winds, resulting in at least one fatality.
2020 World Health Organization Officially Names COVID-19 Pandemic: On February 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) officially named the coronavirus outbreak as COVID-19, with the virus scientifically designated as SARS-CoV-2. This naming was a critical moment in the global response to the emerging pandemic, providing a standardized terminology for communication and research worldwide.
2021 US COVID-19 Deaths Surpass 500,000: The United States reached a grim milestone as COVID-19 deaths exceeded 500,000, surpassing the combined American fatalities from World War I, World War II, and the Vietnam War, highlighting the pandemic's devastating impact.
2022 Escalating Tensions in Russo-Ukrainian War: As geopolitical tensions intensified, multiple international governments took urgent diplomatic and security measures. The Biden administration issued a critical warning for Americans to evacuate Ukraine within 48 hours, citing imminent risks from substantial Russian military buildup. Simultaneously, the British Foreign Office advised its nationals to immediately leave the country. The United States strategically deployed 3,000 additional troops from the 82nd Airborne Division to Poland to reinforce regional security. Israel also took precautionary steps, evacuating embassy staff and diplomats' families from Kyiv and issuing comprehensive travel warnings for its citizens, anticipating a potential large-scale Russian offensive.
2023 Unidentified High-Altitude Object Shot Down Over Yukon: In a significant cross-border military operation, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau ordered the takedown of an unidentified flying object over Yukon territory. A United States Air Force F-22 Raptor successfully intercepted and destroyed the object using an AIM-9X Sidewinder missile. Canadian Armed Forces were subsequently deployed to recover and analyze the debris.

What Is special about February 11?

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