What Happened on February 11 in History?
February 11 has been a day of monumental shifts in global politics, landmark scientific breakthroughs, and the births of some of history's most prolific figures.
Major Historical Events
Nelson Mandela Released (1990): After 27 years in prison for his activism against apartheid, Nelson Mandela was freed from Victor Verster Prison in South Africa.
Founding of Japan (660 BCE): According to tradition, this is the date Emperor Jimmu founded the Japanese nation.
Vatican City Sovereignty (1929): Italy and the Holy See signed the Lateran Treaty, establishing Vatican City as an independent sovereign state.
COVID-19 Officially Named (2020): The World Health Organization (WHO) formally named the disease caused by the novel coronavirus "COVID-19".
Egyptian Revolution (2011): President Hosni Mubarak resigned after 18 days of mass pro-democracy protests, ending his 30-year rule.
Gravitational Waves Detected (2016): Scientists at LIGO announced the first-ever direct observation of gravitational waves, confirming a major prediction of Einstein's general theory of relativity.
Scientific & Cultural Milestones
The Beatles’ First U.S. Concert (1964): Just days after their Ed Sullivan appearance, the Beatles performed their first live U.S. concert at the Washington Coliseum.
First Female Bishop (1989): The Reverend Barbara Harris was consecrated as the first female bishop in the Episcopal Church.
"Robot" Enters the Lexicon (1938): The BBC broadcast a production of the play R.U.R. (Rossum’s Universal Robots), which is credited with introducing the word "robot" to the world.
Notable Births
Thomas Edison (1847): The American inventor who held over 1,000 patents, including the light bulb and phonograph.
Jennifer Aniston (1969): Award-winning actress best known for her role as Rachel Green on Friends.
Burt Reynolds (1936): Iconic American actor known for Smokey and the Bandit and Deliverance.
Sheryl Crow (1962): American singer-songwriter and nine-time Grammy winner.
Notable Deaths
Whitney Houston (2012): The legendary pop superstar was found dead at the age of 48 in Beverly Hills.
Alexander McQueen (2010): Renowned British fashion designer and founder of the Alexander McQueen label.
Holidays & Observances
International Day of Women and Girls in Science: A UN-recognized day to promote full and equal access to science for women and girls.
National Inventors' Day (USA): Designated by President Ronald Reagan to coincide with Thomas Edison's birthday.
