1. 660 BCE – Legendary Founding of Japan by Emperor Jimmu
According to Japanese mythology, Emperor Jimmu, the first Emperor of Japan, ascended to the throne on February 11, 660 BCE. This date is traditionally celebrated as National Foundation Day in Japan. Emperor Jimmu is said to be a direct descendant of the sun goddess Amaterasu, which established the divine origin of the Japanese imperial line. The story symbolizes the unification of the Japanese archipelago under a single ruler. While the exact historical accuracy is debated, this event remains a cornerstone of Japan’s cultural and national identity.
2. 1534 – Henry VIII Declared Supreme Head of the Church of England
On February 11, 1534, Pope Clement VII refused to annul the marriage of King Henry VIII to Catherine of Aragon. This rejection led Henry VIII to break away from the Roman Catholic Church. Subsequently, the English Parliament passed the Act of Supremacy in 1534, declaring Henry the Supreme Head of the Church of England. This marked the beginning of the English Reformation, radically transforming religious and political structures in England. The break from Rome had lasting impacts on English society and the broader Christian world.
3. 1929 – Lateran Treaty Signed
The Lateran Treaty, signed on February 11, 1929, was a pivotal agreement between the Kingdom of Italy and the Holy See. It recognized Vatican City as an independent sovereign state under the Pope’s authority. The treaty resolved the “Roman Question,” which had left the Popes without territorial sovereignty since the unification of Italy. It established the Vatican’s independence and guaranteed religious freedom in Italy. This treaty remains a foundation of the modern relationship between the Vatican and the Italian government.
4. 1945 – Yalta Conference Concludes
The Yalta Conference, held during World War II, ended on February 11, 1945. This meeting involved Allied leaders Franklin D. Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, and Joseph Stalin. They discussed the reorganization of post-war Europe and the establishment of the United Nations. Key decisions included the division of Germany into occupation zones and plans for free elections in Eastern Europe. The outcomes of Yalta heavily influenced the geopolitical landscape of the Cold War era.
5. 1990 – Nelson Mandela Released from Prison
Nelson Mandela was released from Victor Verster Prison on February 11, 1990, after 27 years of imprisonment. His release was a pivotal moment in South African history and marked the beginning of the end of apartheid. Mandela’s freedom was the result of intense negotiations and international pressure on the South African government. Following his release, Mandela became a leading figure in the transition to democratic rule. His commitment to reconciliation and equality helped reshape South Africa’s future.
6. 660 BCE – Traditional Date of the Foundation of the Japanese Empire
This date is celebrated annually in Japan as National Foundation Day, reflecting its cultural significance. The legendary Emperor Jimmu’s ascension established the imperial lineage that continues today. This event symbolizes the unification and identity of the Japanese people. It is a blend of myth and history, underscoring the importance of heritage. The day is marked by ceremonies and patriotic celebrations.
7. 1934 – Bruno Hauptmann Arrested for the Lindbergh Kidnapping
On February 11, 1934, Bruno Hauptmann was arrested in connection with the kidnapping and death of Charles Lindbergh Jr., the infant son of aviator Charles Lindbergh. This case captivated the American public and was dubbed “The Crime of the Century.” Hauptmann was later convicted and executed for the crime, though controversies about his guilt remain. The kidnapping led to major changes in U.S. federal kidnapping laws. The case highlighted the challenges of law enforcement in high-profile crimes.
8. 1975 – Margaret Thatcher Becomes Leader of the Conservative Party
Margaret Thatcher was elected leader of the British Conservative Party on February 11, 1975. She became the first woman to lead a major political party in the United Kingdom. Thatcher’s leadership marked a significant shift towards conservative policies and free-market economics. She later served as Prime Minister from 1979 to 1990, becoming one of the most influential political figures of the 20th century. Her tenure was marked by both strong support and intense opposition.
9. 1998 – The Winter Olympics Begin in Nagano, Japan
The XVIII Olympic Winter Games commenced on February 11, 1998, in Nagano, Japan. This was the third time Japan hosted the Winter Olympics, showcasing global winter sports. The games featured new events like snowboarding and women’s ice hockey. Over 2,000 athletes from around the world participated. The Nagano Olympics are remembered for their technological innovations and environmental focus.
10. 2011 – Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak Resigns
On February 11, 2011, Hosni Mubarak resigned as President of Egypt after nearly 30 years in power. His resignation followed 18 days of massive protests during the Arab Spring. The movement called for democratic reforms, economic opportunity, and an end to corruption. Mubarak’s departure marked a significant turning point in Middle Eastern politics. It inspired other uprisings across the region and reshaped Egypt’s political landscape.