11 February - Thomas Edison birth anniversary

 

Thomas Edison (1847–1931) was an American inventor and businessman who played a crucial role in the development of many devices that greatly influenced modern life. Here are some key points about Thomas Edison:

1. Early Life: Edison was born on February 11, 1847, in Milan, Ohio, USA. He was the seventh and last child of Samuel Ogden Edison Jr. and Nancy Matthews Elliott.

2. Education: Edison received little formal education, attending school for only a few months. His mother, a former schoolteacher, homeschooled him, instilling in him a love for reading and learning.

3. Inventions: Edison held over 1,000 patents for his inventions, including the phonograph, the motion picture camera, and the long-lasting, practical electric light bulb. His inventions and innovations revolutionized industries such as telecommunications, entertainment, and electric power generation and distribution.

4. Electric Light Bulb: While Edison didn't invent the first light bulb, he developed the first commercially practical incandescent light bulb in 1879. His bulb used a carbon filament that burned for many hours, making it suitable for widespread use.

5. Phonograph: In 1877, Edison invented the phonograph, a device capable of recording and playing back sound. This invention laid the groundwork for the modern music and recording industries.

6. Motion Picture Camera: Edison's development of the kinetograph and kinetoscope in the late 19th century paved the way for the motion picture industry. These devices allowed for the recording and viewing of moving images, which led to the birth of cinema.

7. Industrial Research: Edison was one of the first inventors to establish a large-scale industrial research laboratory. The Edison Laboratory, located in Menlo Park, New Jersey, was a hub of innovation where Edison and his team worked on numerous projects and inventions.

8. Business Ventures: In addition to his inventions, Edison was a successful businessman. He founded the Edison General Electric Company (now General Electric) and several other companies to commercialize his inventions and promote electric power distribution.

9. Legacy: Thomas Edison's contributions to science and technology have had a lasting impact on society. His inventions and entrepreneurial spirit helped shape the modern world and laid the groundwork for many technological advancements that followed.

10. Death: Thomas Edison died on October 18, 1931, in West Orange, New Jersey, USA, at the age of 84. Despite his passing, his legacy continues to inspire inventors, entrepreneurs, and innovators worldwide.

 

11 February - World Unani Day

 

World Unani Day is observed annually on February 11th. The day is dedicated to promoting the traditional system of medicine known as Unani medicine, which has roots in ancient Greek medicine and has been practiced for centuries in various parts of the world, including South Asia and the Middle East.

Key points about World Unani Day:

1. Origin: World Unani Day was established to commemorate the birth anniversary of Hakim Ajmal Khan, a renowned Unani physician, social reformer, and freedom fighter, who was born on February 11, 1868.

2. Hakim Ajmal Khan: Hakim Ajmal Khan was a prominent figure in the promotion and development of Unani medicine in India. He played a key role in advocating for the recognition of traditional Indian systems of medicine.

3. Unani Medicine: Unani medicine is a holistic healing system that incorporates principles from ancient Greek, Roman, Persian, and Indian medical traditions. It emphasizes the balance of the body's humors (elements) and the use of natural substances for healing.

4. Promotion and Awareness: World Unani Day serves as an occasion to raise awareness about the principles and practices of Unani medicine. It encourages research, development, and the integration of traditional medicine into modern healthcare systems.

5. Events and Seminars: On World Unani Day, various events, seminars, and conferences may be organized by healthcare institutions, educational organizations, and practitioners to discuss the significance of Unani medicine and its role in healthcare.

6. Government Recognition: In some countries, including India, where Unani medicine has a long history, government agencies and institutions may organize official events and activities to celebrate World Unani Day.

The observation of World Unani Day contributes to the global recognition of traditional medicine systems and their potential contributions to healthcare. It also highlights the need for preserving and promoting traditional knowledge in the field of medicine.

11 February - Youth Day Cameroon

 

Youth Day in Cameroon is celebrated annually on February 11th. It commemorates an event known as the "Youth Uprising" that took place on February 11, 1961. This event played a significant role in the country's history as it marked the beginning of the end of colonial rule and the establishment of a federal state in Cameroon.

On Youth Day, various activities and events are organized to celebrate the youth and their contributions to the nation. The day is often marked with parades, cultural performances, educational programs, and discussions focusing on the role of the youth in the development of Cameroon. It is a public holiday, and schools and institutions may also organize special events to honor the youth.

11 February - Armed Forces Day Liberia

 

Armed Forces Day in Liberia is celebrated on February 11th each year. This day is dedicated to honoring the members of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) and recognizing their service to the country. It is a national holiday, and various events and activities are organized to pay tribute to the military personnel.

The Armed Forces of Liberia plays a crucial role in maintaining national security and contributing to peacekeeping efforts in the region. Armed Forces Day provides an opportunity for the nation to express gratitude for the sacrifices and contributions of the military.

The celebrations on Armed Forces Day may include parades, ceremonies, and other activities that showcase the capabilities and professionalism of the Armed Forces while fostering a sense of national pride.

 

11 February - Inventors' Day United States

 

In the United States, National Inventors' Day is celebrated on February 11th each year. The day is dedicated to honoring inventors and their contributions to innovation. National Inventors' Day was established in 1983 by a joint resolution of the U.S. Congress and was later signed into law by President Ronald Reagan.

February 11th was chosen for National Inventors' Day to coincide with the birthday of Thomas Edison, one of the most famous American inventors. The day is meant to recognize and celebrate the achievements of inventors who have contributed to the advancement of science, technology, and society.

On National Inventors' Day, various events and activities may be organized across the country to highlight the importance of innovation and creativity. It's a day to appreciate the impact of inventors on shaping the world.

Image source : mysticstamp website

11 February - National Foundation Day Japan

 

National Foundation Day, known as "Kenkoku Kinen no Hi" in Japanese, is a national holiday in Japan. It is celebrated on February 11th each year. The day commemorates the foundation of Japan and the accession of its first emperor, Emperor Jimmu, on February 11, 660 BCE, according to the traditional Japanese calendar.

National Foundation Day is a day to reflect on Japan's cultural heritage and history. While it is a national holiday, the celebrations are generally more subdued compared to some other holidays. Some people use the day to visit shrines and engage in activities that celebrate Japanese culture and traditions.

11 February - Promise Day

 

Promise Day is celebrated on February 11th each year as a part of Valentine's Week. It's a day when people express their love and commitment by making promises to each other. During this day, individuals often exchange promises, whether they are romantic partners, friends, or family members. These promises can be related to trust, support, loyalty, or any other aspect of their relationship.

Promise Day is a part of the lead-up to Valentine's Day, which is celebrated on February 14th. During Valentine's Week, each day leading up to Valentine's Day has a specific theme, and Promise Day is one of these themed days.

 

11 February - Independence day Vatican City

 

Vatican City, as an independent city-state and the smallest independent state in the world, does not celebrate a traditional "Independence Day" in the same way as many sovereign nations. Vatican City is an ecclesiastical state, and its sovereignty is closely tied to the authority of the Pope, who is also the head of the Roman Catholic Church.

The establishment of Vatican City as an independent city-state occurred through the Lateran Treaty, signed on February 11, 1929, between the Holy See (representing the Catholic Church) and the Kingdom of Italy. This treaty recognized the Vatican City as an independent sovereign entity and resolved territorial and financial disputes between the Holy See and Italy.

While February 11 marks the anniversary of the Lateran Treaty, Vatican City does not have a public celebration or a national day similar to the Independence Day observed by other countries. Instead, significant events in Vatican City are often tied to religious or ecclesiastical celebrations and the activities of the Catholic Church.

Vatican City's unique status as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church shapes its observances and events. Papal ceremonies, the election of a new Pope (conclave), and major liturgical celebrations often take precedence in the Vatican's calendar.

In summary, while Vatican City does not have a formal Independence Day, its establishment as an independent city-state is associated with the signing of the Lateran Treaty on February 11, 1929. This date holds historical significance in the context of Vatican City's sovereignty.

11 February - International Day of Women and Girls in Science

 

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is observed annually on February 11th. This day is dedicated to recognizing the significant contributions of women and girls in the field of science and to promoting gender equality in science-related fields.

Key points about the International Day of Women and Girls in Science:

1. Objective: The day aims to highlight the achievements of women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. It also seeks to address the gender gap in these areas and encourage more women and girls to pursue careers in science.

2. UNESCO Initiative: The International Day of Women and Girls in Science was established by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2015. It is part of the broader efforts to achieve gender equality and empower women and girls in various sectors, including science.

3. Gender Disparities in STEM: Despite progress in recent years, there is still a gender gap in STEM fields, with fewer women represented in scientific research, academia, and leadership roles. This day raises awareness about these disparities and advocates for equal opportunities for women and girls in science.

4. Events and Activities: Various events and activities take place globally on this day, including conferences, workshops, panel discussions, and outreach programs. These activities aim to inspire and support women and girls in their pursuit of careers in science.

5. Role Models: The day emphasizes the importance of having visible role models in the scientific community. Highlighting the achievements of women scientists can inspire younger generations and challenge stereotypes about gender roles in STEM.

6. Education and Advocacy: The International Day of Women and Girls in Science encourages educational institutions, governments, and organizations to take steps to promote gender equality in science education and research.

By celebrating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the global community acknowledges the critical role that women play in advancing scientific knowledge and innovation. It also underscores the need for creating an inclusive and supportive environment that empowers women and girls to pursue and excel in STEM fields.

11 February - World Marriage Day

 

World Marriage Day is an annual observance that celebrates the institution of marriage and honors married couples. It is typically observed on the second Sunday in February each year. The day provides an opportunity to recognize and affirm the importance of married life, express appreciation for the commitment and love shared by married couples, and promote the virtues of marital fidelity.

Key points about World Marriage Day:

1. Origin: World Marriage Day was first celebrated in 1983 and was created by Worldwide Marriage Encounter, a faith-based organization that aims to strengthen and enrich marriage relationships.

2. Purpose: The primary purpose of World Marriage Day is to honor the husband and wife as the foundation of the family, the basic unit of society. It emphasizes the significance of marriage as a lifelong commitment built on love, trust, and mutual support.

3. Celebrations: Various events and activities take place on World Marriage Day to celebrate the beauty of marriage. These may include special Masses, renewal of marriage vows, prayers, and community events.

4. Recognition of Long-Married Couples: Often, World Marriage Day includes the recognition of couples who have been married for a significant number of years, such as those celebrating milestone anniversaries.

5. Promotion of Marriage Enrichment: Alongside celebrating marriage, the day also encourages couples to invest in their relationships by participating in marriage enrichment programs, workshops, or retreats.

6. Global Observance: While World Marriage Day has its roots in Christian traditions, the celebration is not limited to any specific religious group. People of various faiths and backgrounds may participate in activities that promote the well-being of marriages and families.

World Marriage Day is a positive and affirming celebration that aims to strengthen the fabric of society by highlighting the importance of healthy and committed marriages. It serves as a reminder of the value of strong, enduring marital relationships and encourages couples to continue investing in their love and partnership.

 

11 February - World Day of the Sick

 

The World Day of the Sick is an observance that was instituted by Pope John Paul II and is celebrated annually on February 11th. It was first officially marked on 11 February 1993. This day holds significance for both the Catholic Church and the broader community, focusing on prayers and actions for those who are suffering from illnesses and promoting awareness of health-related issues.

Key points about the World Day of the Sick:

1. Origin: The World Day of the Sick was established by Pope John Paul II as a way to encourage people to pray for those who are suffering due to illness and to recognize the value and dignity of those who are sick.

2. Celebration: The day is marked by various activities, including special liturgical events, prayer services, and community outreach programs. It often involves the participation of healthcare workers, caregivers, and organizations dedicated to providing medical care.

3. Message from the Pope: Each year, the Pope releases a message for the World Day of the Sick, addressing themes related to health, illness, and the care of those who are sick. This message is intended to inspire reflection and action within the global community.

4. Symbol of the Day: The World Day of the Sick is also associated with the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, a sacrament in the Catholic Church that involves the anointing of the sick with blessed oil.

5. Global Participation: While the day has its roots in the Catholic tradition, people from various religious backgrounds and healthcare professionals around the world may participate in events and activities that promote compassion, solidarity, and support for those facing illness.

The World Day of the Sick serves as a reminder of the importance of showing care and empathy towards individuals dealing with illness and emphasizes the role of healthcare providers in promoting the well-being of the sick. The themes addressed on this day often extend beyond the religious context to encompass broader health-related issues affecting communities globally.

11 February - Nelson Mandela, the great South African leader, was released after a 27-year-long imprisonment in 1990

 

Nelson Mandela, the iconic anti-apartheid leader and former President of South Africa, was released from prison on 11 February  1990. His release marked a pivotal moment in South Africa's history and set in motion a series of events that would ultimately lead to the end of apartheid and the establishment of a multiracial democracy in the country.

Nelson Mandela had been imprisoned for 27 years, mainly on Robben Island, for his involvement in anti-apartheid activities. His release was a result of both domestic and international pressure on the South African government to end apartheid and release political prisoners.

Upon his release, Mandela emerged as a key figure in the negotiations to dismantle apartheid and establish democratic elections. He played a crucial role in fostering reconciliation between South Africa's racially divided communities. In 1994, Nelson Mandela became South Africa's first black president in the country's first fully representative democratic election.

Nelson Mandela's life and leadership continue to be celebrated worldwide for his commitment to peace, reconciliation, and the fight against racial injustice. The date of his release, February 11, 1990, is remembered as a historic moment in the journey toward freedom and democracy in South Africa.

11 February - Jamnalal Bajaj death anniversary

Jamnalal Bajaj (04 November 1889 – 11 February 1942) was an Indian industrialist, a philanthropist, and Indian independence fighter.He founded the Bajaj Group of companies in the 1920s, and the group now has 24 companies, including six that are listed on the bourses. He was also a close and beloved associate of Mahatma Gandhi, who is known to have often declared that Jamnalal was his fifth son.

11 February - Deendayal Upadhyaya death anniversary

 

Deendayal Upadhyaya (25 September 1916 – 11 February 1968) was an Indian politician, proponent of integral humanism ideology and leader of the political party Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS), the forerunner of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).Upadhyaya started the monthly publication Rashtra Dharma, broadly meaning 'National Duty', in the 1940s to spread the ideals of Hindutva revival.[3] Upadhyaya is known for drafting Jan Sangh's official political doctrine, Integral humanism,by including some cultural-nationalism values and his agreement with several Gandhian socialist principles such as sarvodaya (progress of all) and swadeshi (self-sufficiency).