On This Day - November 11th
Most of us know November 11th as one of the most important dates in history. It’s a day for many of us to consider peace and the lives lost to maintain it. But November 11th has a lot of history beyond that, too. Here are some of the most important things to know about November 11th, including a few famous birthdays you might share with some well-known people!
On this day
Mary Edward Walker earned an award.
In 1865, Mary Edward Walker was awarded the Medal of Honor. She was the first-ever female surgeon in the US Army – making this a huge moment for equality in the forces.
The War of the Triple Alliance took place.
In 1868, during the War of the Triple Alliance, victory came to the Allies of Uruguay, Brazil, and Argentina in the Battle of Avay. The battle left 3,000 Paraguayan soldiers dead and over 600 wounded.
Persia was given an ultimatum.
In 1911, Persia was given an ultimatum by Russia during the latter’s occupation of Tabriz. The ultimatum was quickly followed by an invasion of North Persia to impose Russian political control.
The Eternal Flame was lit!
In 1923, the Eternal Flame under the Arc de Triomphe in Paris was lit for the first time. It was lit for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and has been burning ever since. It’s a wonderful monument to mark the losses of so many lives during World War I.
Cosmic rays were discovered!
In 1925, Robert A. Millikan, an American scientist, announced his discovery of cosmic rays. The discovery has been endlessly useful in physics experiments ever since – they help us to understand how our universe has evolved over millions of years, for example!
Special Days Falling on November 11th
Many know November 11th as a day of remembrance, gratitude, and commemoration. Here are some of the main reasons why.
Angola Independence Day
For the people of Angola, every November 11th is Independence Day! The country gained its independence from Portugal after a 13-year-long war known as the Angolan War of Independence. The day is celebrated every year all over the nation with parades, festivals, and official ceremonies.
Puerto Princesa Underground River Day
For the people of the Philippines, November 11th is Puerto Princesa Underground River Day. The area has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This unique system contains both mountain and sea as well as ancient forests, a limestone karst landscape, and an array of unique wildlife. So, the area deserves its own day, promoting its protection and respect from everyone visiting it.
Remembrance Day
Remembrance Day is celebrated around the world every November 11th. The day celebrates the end of World War II and encourages us all to remember the sacrifices made to restore peace in the world. It is a day we should all remember, honor, and be grateful for. In the UK in particular, the day is marked with a public laying of poppy wreaths at London’s Cenotaph, and people mark the occasion by wearing their own false poppies through November.
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This page was last modified on November 10, 2023. Suggest an edit
This month in history
In 1979, it was officially announced that China would be re-admitted into the Olympic Games. The country had been absent from the games for 21 years until the International Olympic Committee finally voted to re-admit it. Since then, the People’s Republic of China has hosted the Olympic Games on two separate occasions, the first being in 2008 and the most recent in 2022.
Famous Birthdays on November 11th
If you were born on November 11th…
…you’re a Scorpio! As the scorpion of the Western Zodiac, you’re a mysterious customer with a sting in their tail – but the people who love you really appreciate your passion and your support! Scorpios hate lies, superficiality, and anyone who seems fake.
So, we’re being as real as possible when we say you should head over to our Scorpio facts page to learn more!
