Freedom of the Press: The Small Beginning of a Great Change
The first public acknowledgment of the freedom of the press in America occurred on August 11, 1735. Newspaper publisher John Peter Zenger was acquitted of libel against the British royal governor on this date — a crucial case which paved the path for the Freedom of Press Act.
Height of the Perseid Meteor Shower
Every year around August 11, the magnificent display of the Perseid meteor shower reaches its peak. This celestial spectacle, named after the constellation of Perseus, from where it appears to come from, showers the sky with as many as 60-100 meteors per hour at its peak.
Birthday of the Famous Hulk
August 11 marks the birth of an important figure in the comic book world. It's the birthday of Hulk, one of the most iconic superhero characters. Hulk was first introduced in the inaugural issue of The Incredible Hulk comic, dated August 1962.
Kit Kat’s Iconic melody Launch
On August 11, 1988, Kit Kat, everyone's favorite chocolate-covered wafer bar, introduced its catchy "Gimme a Break" jingle. Advertising can be transformative, and this theme song became a cultural touchstone that defined the brand for years to come.
Scores on the Board: Babe Ruth Breaks His Own Record
On this day in 1929, baseball legend Babe Ruth became the first player in the history of the sport to hit 500 home runs. With this monumental hit, he broke his own record and added another amazing feat to his illustrious career.
H.M.S. Resolute Discovered in the Arctic
August 11, 1859, marks the discovery of the abandoned British ship H.M.S. Resolute. The ship had been trapped in the Arctic ice during an expedition, was abandoned, recovered, and eventually given back to Queen Victoria.
Start of a Video Game Era: Atari is Incorporated
On August 11, 1972, a major milestone in the world of video games took place. Atari, the company that was instrumental in establishing the video game industry, was incorporated.
Daytona’s Major Makeover
On August 11, 1958, ground was broken for the construction of Daytona International Speedway in Florida. Since then, it's been one of the most famous race tracks in the world, hosting numerous high-profile racing events throughout the year.
Nixon’s Notable Announcement
August 11, 1984, holds a significant place in US history. President Richard Nixon formally announced his resignation on this date, following the Watergate scandal. His announcement brought a sudden end to his controversial administration.
Arrival of the Beatles in America
On August 11, 1966, the Beatles began their last American tour. They started their journey in Chicago, marking a significant period in the band's global journey and the "British Invasion" of the American music industry.
First Cloned Sheep Dolly Passes
Sadly, the world’s first cloned mammal, Dolly the sheep, was euthanized on August 11, 2003, after suffering from a progressive lung disease. Her birth and life opened up endless possibilities and discussions within the scientific community.
The Birth of a Renowned Fashion Designer
On August 11, 1950, famous Italian designer Gianni Versace was born. Known for his flamboyant designs and the creation of the iconic Versace brand, his contribution to the fashion world is immeasurable.
Launch of MTV’s The Real World
August 11, 1992, marks the debut of The Real World on MTV. The long-running series is credited with defining the reality television genre, featuring young adults living together in several cities.
Construction of the Panama Canal Completed
On August 11, 1914, exactly ten years after construction began, the Panama Canal was completed. The canal connected the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, revolutionizing global trade routes and maritime travel.
The Start of the Berlin Wall
One of the most iconic symbols of the Cold War, the construction of the Berlin Wall, started on August 11, 1961. This separation between East and West Germany continued for a significant time before the Wall was brought down in 1989.
Birth of the Hollywood Stuntman
August 11, 1889, saw the birth of legendary Hollywood stuntman Yakima Canutt. He set the foundation for many modern stunt techniques and has since become a significant figure in Hollywood history.
A Terrifying Doubled Twister
On August 11, 1999, Salt Lake City, Utah, experienced two tornadoes on the same day. This rare double whammy resulted in severe damage and claimed one life, leaving the city in a state of shock.
Release of Classic Novella, 'Of Mice and Men'
John Steinbeck’s timeless novella, 'Of Mice and Men,' was released for the first time on August 11, 1937. This literary classic continues to be a must-read in many secondary education curriculums.
Birth of the Popsicle
August 11 also marks a fun food revelation. In 1905, eleven-year-old Frank Epperson accidentally invented the first popsicle, turning an ordinary day into a flavorful one.
The Launch of the Mars Rover: The Exploration Begins
On August 11, 2012, NASA's Mars rover, Curiosity, began its first exploration mission, providing a significant leap for the exploration and study of the red planet. The exploration helped collect vital information about Mars' geologic and climatic history.