Major Historical Events on October 11- Today in History

October 11 has played host to several moments in history that have left a lasting impression on the world. Lets uncover the Major Historical Events on October 11 that not only influenced the course of history but continue to impact our world today.

Defeat of Protestant Troops at the Battle of Kappel – 1531 AD

During the Swiss Reformation, Protestant forces led by Jörg Göldli were defeated by Roman Catholic troops at the Battle of Kappel, a key event that deepened religious tensions in Switzerland.

Formation of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) – 1890 AD

The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), an organization promoting patriotism and preserving American history, was officially organized, playing a significant role in historic preservation and education.

Start of the South African (Boer) War – 1899 AD

The South African (Boer) War erupted between Great Britain and the Boer republics, the South African Republic (Transvaal) and the Orange Free State, marking the beginning of a brutal conflict over sovereignty and imperialism.

Birth of Bollywood Icon Amitabh Bachchan – 1942 AD

Amitabh Bachchan, one of the most influential figures in Indian cinema, was born, later becoming a global icon through his diverse and powerful performances across decades.

Premiere of the Film Noir Classic Laura – 1944 AD

Laura, a film noir classic starring Gene Tierney and Dana Andrews, made its debut in New York City, becoming one of the most beloved films of the genre with its gripping mystery and haunting score.

Launch of Pioneer 1 into Lunar Orbit – 1958 AD

The U.S. successfully launched Pioneer 1, an unmanned deep-space probe, aiming to explore lunar orbit. Though it fell short of its target, it provided valuable data for future missions.

Opening of the Second Vatican Council – 1962 AD

The Second Vatican Council, convened by Pope John XXIII, opened in 1962 to modernize the Catholic Church’s approach to contemporary issues, becoming a landmark in religious reform.

Apollo 7 Launched – 1968 AD

NASA launched Apollo 7, the first manned mission in the Apollo program, which successfully carried out its mission and provided the first live television broadcast from a crewed space mission.

Release of John Lennon’s Iconic Song Imagine – 1971 AD

John Lennon’s Imagine was released as a single, becoming an anthem for peace and unity. Its hopeful message and timeless appeal made it his most celebrated solo work.

Establishment of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) – 1974 AD

President Gerald R. Ford established the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to regulate civilian use of nuclear materials in the U.S., ensuring safety and accountability in nuclear energy.

Debut of Saturday Night Live on NBC – 1975 AD

The sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live made its debut on NBC, becoming a revolutionary platform for comedic talent and shaping the future of American television.

Kathryn Sullivan’s Historic Spacewalk – 1984 AD

American astronaut Kathryn Sullivan became the first woman to walk in space, marking a significant milestone in NASA’s history and advancing the role of women in space exploration.

Anita Hill Testifies Against Clarence Thomas – 1991 AD

During Clarence Thomas’s Supreme Court confirmation hearings, Anita Hill’s testimony alleging sexual harassment sparked a national conversation on workplace harassment, leading to a deeply divided confirmation vote.

Valentina Tereshkova Honored as Greatest Woman Achiever of the Century – 2000 AD

In London, the International Women of the Year Association awarded Valentina Tereshkova, the first woman in space, the title of Greatest Woman Achiever of the Century for her pioneering contributions to space exploration.

U.S. Congress Grants Authority for Force Against Iraq – 2002 AD

The U.S. Congress passed a bill granting President George W. Bush broad authority to use military force against Iraq, a pivotal moment leading to the Iraq War and shaping U.S. foreign policy.

Also Read: Major Historical Events on October 10- Today in History