March 11: Holidays, Historical Events, Famous Birthdays & Zodiac Sign
In 2011, a massive 9.0 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Japan, triggering a devastating tsunami and a historic nuclear crisis.
About March 11
March 11 serves as a profound reminder of both human resilience and the overwhelming power of nature. While the 2011 Japanese disaster reshaped global perspectives on nuclear safety, the date also marks significant political transitions, such as Lithuania's 1990 declaration of independence from the Soviet Union and the 1985 election of Mikhail Gorbachev, which signaled the beginning of the end for the USSR.
Beyond the heavy history, the day offers moments of cultural beauty and lightheartedness. It is a day to celebrate the arts, from the 1851 debut of Verdi’s masterpiece Rigoletto in Venice to the whimsical spirit of Dream Day. Whether honoring the bravery of political leaders or embracing the simple joy of a bowl of noodles, March 11 is a tapestry of the world's most intense and tender moments.
Holidays & Observances on March 11
- Day of Restoration of Independence from the Soviet Union in 1990 (Lithuania)
- Moshoeshoe Day (Lesotho)
- Saudi Flag Day
Fun & National Days on March 11
- Dream Day — Take a moment to visualize your biggest goals and let your imagination run wild.
- Johnny Appleseed Day — Celebrate this day by enjoying some fresh apple slices or a homemade pie.
- National "Eat Your Noodles" Day — Slurp up your favorite ramen, pasta, or noodles to celebrate this tasty occasion.
- National Promposal Day — Get creative and ask someone special to a dance in a truly unforgettable way.
- Debunking Day — Use your logic to challenge myths and uncover the truth behind common misconceptions.
- National 311 Day
- No Smoking Day (UK)
- Oatmeal Nut Waffles Day
- Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day
- World Day of Muslim Culture, Peace, Dialogue and Film
On This Day in History
- 843 — Empress Theodora II successfully reinstates the practice of honoring religious icons throughout the Byzantine Empire.
- 1702 — History was made in England with the very first publication of The Daily Courant, the nation's inaugural daily newspaper.
- 1784 — The Second Anglo-Mysore War reached its conclusion following the official signing of the Treaty of Mangalore.
- 1851 — Giuseppe Verdi's legendary opera, Rigoletto, saw its world premiere during a performance in Venice, Italy.
- 1864 — A catastrophic flood in Sheffield, England, resulted in the tragic loss of 238 lives.
- 1917 — During the Mesopotamian campaign of WWI, Anglo-Indian troops led by General Maude successfully captured the city of Baghdad.
- 1941 — President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Lend-Lease Act, a vital move to supply Allies with American war materials.
- 1946 — British forces successfully located and apprehended Rudolf Höss, the former commander of the Auschwitz concentration camp.
- 1985 — Mikhail Gorbachev ascended to leadership of the Soviet Union as the newly elected General Secretary of the Communist Party.
- 1990 — Lithuania made history by formally declaring its independence from the Soviet Union.
- 2003 — The International Criminal Court officially commenced its very first session in The Hague.
- 2011 — A massive 9.0 magnitude earthquake hit Japan, causing a tsunami and a major nuclear accident.
Famous Birthdays on March 11
- 1818 — Marius Petipa, The legendary French-Russian choreographer who shaped the world of classical ballet.
- 1921 — Astor Piazzolla, The revolutionary Argentine composer who transformed the sound of tango music.
- 1931 — Rupert Murdoch, The influential Australian-American media mogul who built a massive global news empire.
- 1936 — Antonin Scalia, The influential American jurist who served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court.
- 1950 — Bobby McFerrin, The acclaimed American singer and conductor known for his incredible vocal talent.
- 1952 — Douglas Adams, The brilliant English author known for his beloved science fiction writing.