People and Events on February 11, 2008

No famous people were born on this date, but there may be notable events you would find interesting below.

A Turbulent Tuesday: February 11th, 2008

February 11th, 2008, was a day marked by turmoil and triumph, as world leaders faced challenges and innovators pushed boundaries. On this day, East Timor's President José Ramos-Horta was attacked by rebels, while the world of science celebrated a groundbreaking discovery.

East Timor Under Attack

In the early hours of February 11th, 2008, President José Ramos-Horta of East Timor was ambushed by a group of rebels at his home in Dili, the capital city. Although he survived the attack, he was seriously injured and later airlifted to Australia for medical treatment.

A Breakthrough in Stem Cell Research

On the same day, scientists at the University of Wisconsin-Madison made a significant breakthrough in stem cell research. They successfully transformed human skin cells into stem cells, paving the way for potential cures for diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

Birthday Celebrations

February 11th, 2008, was also a special day for several notable individuals who shared this birthday:

In Memoriam

On this day, the world bid farewell to two prominent figures:

  • Alfredo Baldomir, the Uruguayan architect and politician, passed away at the age of 88.
  • Emiliano Mercado del Toro, a Puerto Rican supercentenarian, died at the remarkable age of 115 years and 252 days.

February 11th, 2008, was indeed a day of contrasts, marked by both turmoil and triumph. While world leaders faced challenges, innovators pushed the boundaries of science, and legends were born and remembered.

Noteworthy Events on this Day:
Rebel soldiers, led by Alfredo Reinado, launched a brazen assault on the home of President José Ramos-Horta, leaving the Nobel Peace Prize winner fighting for his life. The President, known for his bravery and commitment to East Timor's independence, was seriously wounded in the attack. In the ensuing chaos, Reinado was killed, marking a dramatic end to his notorious career as a rebel leader. As the world held its breath, President Ramos-Horta was airlifted to a hospital in Australia, where he would undergo surgery and make a remarkable recovery. This shocking event sent shockwaves through the young nation, raising questions about the stability of East Timor's government and the ongoing struggle for peace.