🗓️ On This Day - February 11th
February’s already well underway, but what should we be marking on the 11th? You’re a few days away from Valentine’s if you still need to grab a last-minute gift for any loved ones… but there are actually a handful of extra reasons why February 11th is so notable. Let’s take a look at why.
On this day
Nero sets his sights on Rome!
All the way back in 55 AD, there’s sinister rumblings in the Roman Empire… as Tiberius Claudius Caesar Brittanicus, then-heir to the entirety of the Emperorship, appears to die suspiciously. This eventually led to Emperor Nero’s ascent to the throne… but who was responsible…?
This hospital’s open for business!
February 11th is a major day of celebration for those in the medical industry. It was on February 11th 1753 that the US’ first hospital opened in Pennsylvania, with a little help from one Benjamin Franklin.
A major stride for women in religion!
1989 saw Barbara Harris - on behalf of the Protestant Episcopal Church - become the world’s first female bishop. She received the honor on February 11th - and thankfully, it opened up many doors for women in religion for years to come.
Mandela walks free!
After spending 27 years in prison, activist Nelson Mandela was released in 1990 on February 11th. For the first 18 years of imprisonment, he had neither a bed nor plumbing. He was allowed an annual meeting with a single visitor and to receive and write only one letter every six months. His release is still celebrated to this day, even long after his passing.
We said goodbye to a modern legend.
It’s on February 11th, 2012, that Whitney Houston - iconic singer behind hits such as “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” and her show-stopping version of “I Will Always Love You” - sadly passed away. She was found at home, having died at the age of just 48 years old.
Special Days Falling on February 11th
Not got much to celebrate today? No worries! Here are some interesting days that might just tickle your fancy this February 11th.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science
In 2015, the United Nations decided this day be allocated for the focus of offering equal opportunities for males and females across math, science, engineering and technology. While science may have been a male-dominated field over the centuries, we have plenty to thank our women for - and today’s a great day to recognize their achievements.
National Inventors Day
It’s Thomas Edison’s birthday - when better, then, to look back at some of our biggest accomplishments over history? US President Ronald Reagan first declared this national day during his term in 1983. It’s a great idea to think creatively about solving some common problems at home today, too!
World Day of the Sick
Begun by Pope John Paul ll, this day is intended to remind people over the globe to think of people who are sick and pray for them. It is also a day to give thanks for carers and people who help sick people in other ways. Catholic churches have special services today, but people can support the idea without having to undertake any kind of religious practice.
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This page was last modified on July 29, 2023. Suggest an edit
This month in history
The world held its breath in 1999 as then-US President Bill Clinton saw the end of his impeachment proceedings. That February, US viewers saw the jury decide whether or not he was guilty of perjury and obstruction of justice. Luckily for Clinton, he walked free - acquitted by both Republicans and Democrats until the end of his term in 2001.
Famous Birthdays on February 11th
If you were born on February 11th…
Your astrological star sign is Aquarius, with the ruling planet Uranus. Colors considered to be lucky for you are violet, dark blue and silvery white! You love learning new things, and are extremely independent.
However, you also love solving problems, and are extremely empathetic. Many people are lucky to have you as a friend! Want to learn more about Aquarius’ place in the Zodiac? Check out our full fact file.
