On this day: February 11
The First Recognized Mass Psychogenic Illness: 1966 Rio de Janeiro School Case
In February 1966, students at a girls’ school in Rio de Janeiro experienced an outbreak of fainting, crying, and uncontrollable movements that clinicians later classified as mass psychogenic illness—one of the first well-documented modern cases linking social stress and shared somatic symptoms.
Victorian Mourning Dress Linked to Fatal Lead Poisoning, 1862
On February 11, 1862, British medical reports associated the death of a woman with chronic lead poisoning traced to pigments used in fashionable mourning dress. The case highlighted health risks of clothing dyes during the Victorian era and prompted growing concern among physicians and printers of textiles.
FBI Admits Errors in High-Profile 1991 Murder Inquiry
In February 1991 the FBI publicly acknowledged investigative errors in a major murder case, saying procedural and analytical mistakes affected the probe’s direction and outcomes. The admission prompted calls for review of evidence and renewed scrutiny of investigative practices.
FBI Admits Failures in Handling Secret Informants
On Feb. 11, 1987, the FBI publicly acknowledged shortcomings in its management of confidential informants, citing lapses in oversight and communication that compromised investigations and safety.
Charles Darwin publishes On the Origin of Species
On 24 November 1859 Charles Darwin published On the Origin of Species, presenting evidence for evolution by natural selection and sparking widespread scientific and public debate that reshaped biology.
Publication of Mein Kampf by Adolf Hitler
On February 11, 1926, Adolf Hitler published Mein Kampf in a single-volume edition combining volumes released earlier, presenting his political ideology and plans that would later shape Nazi policy.
East–West Border Crossings at the Berlin Wall Officially Reopen
On 11 February 1990, formal reopening of several Berlin Wall crossing points restored regulated border transit between East and West Berlin as part of the broader process of German reunification and East German reform.
Publication of Adolf Hitler’s Mein Kampf (February 11, 1926)
On February 11, 1926, Adolf Hitler published the first volume of Mein Kampf in a revised edition; the book laid out his political ideology and plans for Germany, later becoming a foundational text for Nazi propaganda and policy.
Nelson Mandela Released After 27 Years in Prison
On February 11, 1990, Nelson Mandela was released from Victor Verster Prison after 27 years behind bars, marking a pivotal step in South Africa’s transition away from apartheid and beginning negotiations for majority rule.