August 11 has seen a diverse array of events that have left a mark on the annals of history. From breakthroughs in science to revolutions in the political realm, and from cultural milestones to key moments in sports, this day serves as a testament to the human spirit and its continual strive for evolution. Here’s an extensive exploration of some of the defining moments that took place on this date.
Today in History: 11 August
1. The Invention of Bakelite (1909)
In the world of material science, August 11 is particularly significant. On this day in 1909, Leo Hendrik Baekeland patented Bakelite, the world’s first synthetic plastic. Made from formaldehyde and phenol, Bakelite was resistant to heat and electrical conductivity. This made it incredibly useful, revolutionizing various industries and setting the stage for the modern plastic era.
2. Alcatraz Welcomes its First Inmates (1934)
Alcatraz, the infamous island prison, received its first group of civilian prisoners on August 11, 1934. Situated in San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz had been a military prison before being converted into a maximum-security civilian facility. It housed notorious criminals such as Al Capone and Robert “The Birdman” Stroud during its tenure as a federal penitentiary.
3. The Watts Riots (1965)
The Watts Riots, one of the most severe race riots in U.S. history, commenced on August 11, 1965. Sparked by anger over the arrest of a young African-American man for suspected drunk driving, the riots lasted for six days, leading to 34 deaths, over 1,000 injuries, and causing more than $40 million in property damage.
4. The Birth of Alex Haley (1921)
On August 11, 1921, Alex Haley, the acclaimed American author of “Roots,” was born. His work traced his lineage back to Africa and explored the experience of African-Americans in the US. “Roots” was adapted into a highly influential TV mini-series that significantly impacted conversations on race, heritage, and identity in the U.S.
5. The Publication of the Married Women’s Property Act (1870)
In the UK, August 11 marks the passage of the Married Women’s Property Act of 1870. This landmark legislation allowed women to inherit property and money without interference from their husbands, marking a significant step towards gender equality.
6. Construction of the Berlin Wall Begins (1961)
A defining moment of the Cold War, on August 11, 1961, the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) began the construction of the Berlin Wall. This wall, both symbolic and very physical, divided East and West Berlin until 1989 and became an emblem of the broader divide between the Eastern and Western blocs.
7. The Coronation of King Haakon VII (1906)
On this day in 1906, King Haakon VII was coronated in Norway, becoming the first king of an independent Norway in several centuries. His reign, which lasted until 1957, saw Norway navigate both World Wars and further solidify its independence.
8. The Formation of the Professional Golfers’ Association (1916)
Sports enthusiasts might recognize August 11 as the date when the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) was established in 1916. Founded in New York City, the PGA has since played a pivotal role in promoting golf and has been responsible for several major tournaments in the sport.
9. The Passing of Edith Wharton (1937)
Celebrated novelist Edith Wharton, known for works like “The Age of Innocence” and “Ethan Frome,” passed away on August 11, 1937. Wharton was the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, and her novels, which dissected the American upper class, remain influential today.
10. The Establishment of the Smithsonian Institution (1846)
On August 11, 1846, the Smithsonian Institution was created, thanks to an act of Congress. Founded after James Smithson, a British scientist, bequeathed his property to the U.S. “for the increase and diffusion of knowledge,” the Smithsonian has since grown into a complex of museums and research institutions.
11. The Release of the ‘Wizard of Oz’ (1939)
August 11, 1939, marked the premiere of the iconic film ‘The Wizard of Oz’. The movie, starring Judy Garland as Dorothy, became an instant classic, merging fairy-tale storytelling with groundbreaking technology like Technicolor.
Conclusion
As we traverse through August 11 in history, we see a fascinating blend of scientific advancements, sociopolitical upheavals, cultural breakthroughs, and more. These events, both major and minor, have shaped the course of human history in myriad ways. Whether we’re looking at groundbreaking legislation that changed societal norms or artistic achievements that continue to inspire, August 11 reminds us of the rich tapestry of human endeavours, innovations, struggles, and successes. Each event, in its own unique way, has influenced and inspired subsequent generations, leaving a legacy that we continue to benefit from and reflect upon today.