On this day, September 11 - Know what happened today in history

Today In History, September 11

September 11 is a day marked by significant historical events that have shaped the world in profound ways. From devastating attacks to cultural movements, and groundbreaking technological tests, this day has left an indelible mark on history. As we reflect on these moments, it’s also a day to remember the notable figures born and lost on this date, whose legacies continue to influence our lives.

2012: Attacks on US Diplomatic Compounds in Benghazi, Libya

On this day in 2012, around 150 Islamic militants launched a brutal attack on two US diplomatic buildings in Benghazi, Libya. Armed with gunfire, grenades, and mortars, they claimed the lives of four Americans, including the esteemed US Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens. This tragic incident ignited a political firestorm in the United States, particularly surrounding the actions and statements of then-Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, and the State Department.

The Occupy Wall Street movement took root on September 11, 2011, in Zuccotti Park, located in New York City’s financial district. What started as a small protest against economic inequality and corporate greed quickly grew into a global movement, inspiring similar protests around the world.

In 2007, Russia conducted a test of the world’s most powerful non-nuclear bomb, known as the "Father of All Bombs." This thermobaric weapon, which detonates in mid-air and uses atmospheric oxygen to create a massive explosion, unleashed energy equivalent to 44 tons of TNT, showcasing the destructive potential of modern warfare technology.

The world stood still on the morning of September 11, 2001, as four coordinated suicide attacks were carried out by the terrorist group Al Qaeda in the United States. Nineteen militants hijacked four airplanes, crashing two into the World Trade Center’s Twin Towers in New York City, leading to their catastrophic collapse. Another plane struck the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, while a fourth, believed to be heading towards Washington, D.C., was brought down in a field in Pennsylvania after passengers bravely fought back. The attacks claimed nearly 3,000 lives, left approximately 6,000 injured, and caused extensive economic and infrastructural damage. This event became a catalyst for the War on Terror and the subsequent War in Afghanistan.

On September 11, 1998, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, made history by becoming the first Asian city without a British monarch as head of state to host the Commonwealth Games. The 16th edition of these games saw participation from 69 countries, reflecting the global nature of this prestigious sporting event, which takes place every four years.

• 1977: Ludacris, renowned American rapper, producer, and actor, known for founding Disturbing tha Peace Records.
• 1965: Moby, celebrated American singe, songwriter and DJ, recognised for his groundbreaking contributions to electronic music.
• 1965: Bashar al-Assad, prominent Syrian politician, serving as the 21st President of Syria.
• 1924: Rudolf Vrba, esteemed Czech/Canadian Holocaust survivor and educator, famed for his daring escape from Auschwitz.
• 1885: D. H. Lawrence, influential English novelist, noted for his exploration of complex human relationships.

•  1987: Peter Tosh, legendary Jamaican singer, songwriter and guitarist, a pioneer in the reggae music genre.
• 1973: Salvador Allende, influential Chilean physician and politician, known as the first Marxist to be elected President in Latin America.
• 1971: Nikita Khrushchev, Notable Soviet politician, who served as the 7th Premier of the Soviet Union and played a critical role during the Cold War.
• 1948: Muhammad Ali Jinnah, distinguished Indian/Pakistani lawyer and politician, revered as the founder of Pakistan.
• 1941 : Bold Revolutionary:Christian Rakovsky, prominent Bulgarian revolutionary and politician, recognised as a significant figure in early Soviet history.