In History, Today on August 11

A new and complex solar cycle has been recognized as beginning by scientists.

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the approval of the world's first COVID-19 vaccine, named Sputnik V, despite concerns over its safety and efficacy due to limited testing.

The Unite the Right rally began in Charlottesville, Virginia, leading to violent clashes and the death of a counter-protester.

The World Health Organization declares the end of the yellow fever outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Angola.

American actor and comedian Robin Williams is found dead at his home in California, leading to widespread mourning and discussions on mental health.

The 2012 Summer Olympics in London conclude, with the United States leading the medal count.

Russia announced a ceasefire following a five-day conflict with Georgia over the breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, after significant international pressure and mediation efforts.

British authorities arrest 24 suspects in connection with a plot to blow up transatlantic airliners using liquid explosives.

NATO takes over command of the peacekeeping force in Afghanistan, marking its first major operation outside Europe.

A total solar eclipse is visible from Europe and Asia.

United States President Ronald Reagan jokes about bombing Russia during a microphone sound check, causing a minor international incident.

The last United States ground combat unit leaves South Vietnam.

The Watts Riots begin in Los Angeles, California, lasting for six days.

Allied control of Korea began with the establishment of the 38th parallel as a temporary division between Soviet and American forces.

The U.S. Secretary of War, Henry L. Stimson, authorized the imprisonment of Japanese-American citizens as a security measure during World War II.

The first civilian prisoners arrive at the Federal prison on Alcatraz Island.

Babe Ruth becomes the first baseball player to hit 500 home runs in his career.

The first official Boy Scout camp ends on Brownsea Island in England.

The Spanish-American War: An armistice was signed between Spain and the United States, effectively ending hostilities. This agreement led to the eventual formal peace treaty known as the Treaty of Paris.

The first pedestrian was killed by a motor vehicle in the UK. Bridget Driscoll was struck by a car in Crystal Palace, London, an incident that emphasized the need for automobile safety awareness.

The Second Opium War: The Anglo-French troop commandeered the Taku Forts along the Peiho River, a significant military engagement against Qing dynasty China.

Francis II assumed the title of first Emperor of Austria, transitioning from his role as Holy Roman Emperor. This marked a significant restructuring of political authority in Central Europe, as Francis II sought to fortify his position amidst the turbulence of the Napoleonic Wars.

Captain Francis Light establishes the British colony of Penang in Malaysia.

The foundation stone of the Royal Greenwich Observatory in London, England is laid.

Rodrigo de Borja is elected as Pope Alexander VI.

During the Battle of Montecatini, the forces of the Republic of Pisa secured a victory over the Republic of Florence. This conflict was part of the broader power struggles between the Italian city-states.

The Battle of Maldon takes place, where Anglo-Saxons led by Byrhtnoth are defeated by Viking invaders.

The Battle of Thermopylae concludes with a Persian victory over the Greek city-states, led by King Leonidas of Sparta.

In the year 106, the Roman Emperor Trajan declared the annexation of Arabia Petraea (now modern-day Jordan and southern Syria) into the Roman Empire.