The 11th of September has had significant events throughout history, shaping societies, nations, and the world. While most notably recognized for the tragic events in 2001, this date has been the backdrop for many critical moments in time. Let’s dive deep into the various occurrences on this day.
Today in History: 11 September
1. 2001: The September 11 Attacks
Arguably one of the most significant events in modern history, on this day, a series of coordinated suicide attacks were carried out by the Islamist extremist group Al-Qaeda in the United States. Four passenger airliners were hijacked; two crashed into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, causing both 110-story towers to collapse. Another plane crashed into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, and the fourth plane, United Airlines Flight 93, crashed into a field in Pennsylvania after passengers attempted to overcome the hijackers. Nearly 3,000 people were killed in the attacks, leading to widespread global condemnation.
The repercussions were massive. The United States, with the support of many other nations, initiated a global “War on Terror”. This included the war in Afghanistan to dismantle Al-Qaeda and remove the Taliban from power. The events also led to the creation of the USA PATRIOT Act, widespread changes in U.S. policy and security measures, including the creation of the Department of Homeland Security, and many other nations also revamped their policies and security protocols.
2. 1609: Discovery of Manhattan Island
On this day, Henry Hudson, an English sea explorer and navigator, discovered the island of Manhattan. While working for the Dutch East India Company, Hudson and his crew entered what is now the Hudson River in New York. This discovery would eventually lead to the Dutch establishment of the colony of New Netherland, with New Amsterdam (later renamed New York City) as its capital.
3. 1777: Battle of Brandywine
In the American Revolutionary War, the Battle of Brandywine was fought between the American Continental Army of General George Washington and the British Army led by General Sir William Howe. The British defeated the Americans, allowing them to capture the city of Philadelphia.
4. 1921: Nahalal, the First Moshav in Palestine
Established in Palestine under the British Mandate, Nahalal was the first moshav ovum, a type of cooperative agricultural community of individual farms. It was established by Jewish pioneers and played a significant role in shaping the Zionist movement’s agricultural enterprise.
5. 1965: Indo-Pakistani War
Also known as the Second Kashmir War, it was fought between India and Pakistan over the region of Kashmir, a contentious issue between the two countries since their independence in 1947. The war began following Pakistan’s Operation Gibraltar, which was designed to infiltrate forces into Jammu and Kashmir to precipitate an insurgency against Indian rule. The seventeen-day war caused thousands of casualties on both sides and witnessed the largest engagement of armoured vehicles and the largest tank battle since World War II.
6. 1973: Chilean Military Coup
On this day, the Chilean military, led by General Augusto Pinochet, overthrew the democratically elected president Salvador Allende. The aftermath saw Pinochet establish a dictatorship that lasted until 1990, during which numerous human rights violations were committed.
7. 1997: Scotland Votes for Devolution
In a historic referendum, Scotland voted to establish a devolved Scottish Parliament, granting them significant autonomy over various local matters, while the UK retained control over matters like foreign affairs and defence.
8. 2012: Attack on the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi, Libya
Members of the Islamic militant group Ansar al-Sharia attacked the American diplomatic compound in Benghazi. Four Americans, including U.S. Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens, were killed. The attack and subsequent political reactions and investigations became a significant point of discussion in the United States, especially regarding the role and actions of then-Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton.
Notable Births on 11 September:
- 1862: O. Henry (William Sydney Porter), American short story writer.
- 1885: D. H. Lawrence, an English novelist, poet, playwright, and essayist.
In Conclusion:
11 September is a date that has witnessed a myriad of events, from explorations and wars to political upheavals and acts of terror. The multifaceted nature of history on this day reminds us of the complex interplay of social, political, and individual actions and their lasting impact on the world.
While the tragic events of 2001 remain at the forefront of global memory, it’s essential to recognize the broader tapestry of events that have shaped human history on this day. The events of 11 September underscore the importance of understanding and learning from history, fostering peace, unity, and collaboration among nations, and working towards a better future.