Today is January 11: a day to celebrate and remember significant historical events.
On January 11, 1971, American journalist Don Heffler first used the term "Silicon Valley." In 1923, France and Belgium occupied the Ruhr region of Germany. In 1922, insulin was used for the first time in the world to treat diabetes. In 1919, in Soviet Russia and the territories it occupied in Ukraine, a system of mandatory grain procurement was introduced. In 1913, the last commander-in-chief of the UPA, Vasily Kuk, was born. In 1785, New York briefly became the capital of the United States.
Holidays and Observances on January 11
January 11 is International Thank You Day and International Day of Equality at Work.
Also today: World Sketchnote Day (a celebration for artists creating notes using the sketchnoting technique – quick drawing; sketchnotes combine text and images to help remember information more easily); Secret Pal Day, Paget's Disease Awareness Day, "Cigarettes are Hazardous to Health" Day, Hug Day for Boys and Girls, and "Learn Your Name in Morse Code" Day.
January 11 in History
On January 11, 1785, New York briefly became the capital of the United States. Learn more.
On January 11, 1913, the last commander-in-chief of the UPA, Vasily Kuk, was born. Learn more.
On January 11, 1919, a system of mandatory grain procurement was introduced in Soviet Russia and the territories it occupied (mandatory delivery of excess grain by peasants to the state). Learn more.
On January 11, 1922, insulin was first used in the world to treat diabetes. Learn more.
On January 11, 1923, French and Belgian troops occupied the Ruhr region of Germany. Learn more.
On January 11, 1935, American Amelia Earhart began her flight across the Pacific Ocean – from the Hawaiian Islands to Oakland, California. She became the first person in the world to complete this route by airplane. Learn more.
On January 11, 1971, American journalist Don Heffler first used the term "Silicon Valley" in a publication for "Electronic News." He prepared a series of articles under the collective title "Silicon Valley, USA." The name itself derives from silicon – the most common semiconductor. Silicon is one of the key materials used in the production of transistors and microchips, which are the fundamental elements of modern electronics.
Today, "Silicon Valley" is often referenced metaphorically, denoting areas where modern technologies, IT, and high-tech industries are developing (or will develop). However, the real "Silicon Valley" still exists in Northern California (in the San Francisco Bay Area). This region is a global center for high technology and innovation, and it is precisely about this area that journalist Heffler wrote.
In fact, he did not coin the term "Silicon Valley," but merely popularized it. Jim Winkler, co-owner of "Vincler Communications, Inc.," elaborated on this. He is quoted by the Computer History Museum (CHM).
"Don was a columnist for Electronic News (EN) – a weekly tabloid covering the electronics industry. EN landed on the desks of executives and managers in the electronics industry every Monday morning. These individuals did not start their work week until they read EN. They wanted to know what was being said about people, products, and companies in the industry. EN was the 'Bible.' If a story didn't appear in EN, it didn't happen. Don had been working on a story about how the semiconductor industry was thriving in the Santa Clara Valley in the 1960s. One day, a few marketers called Don and said they were going to be in San Francisco that day and invited him to lunch. I worked with Don, so we went together. During lunch, one guy mentioned something about 'Silicon Valley.' I saw Don's eyes light up ever so slightly, like a poker player who just made a straight, as he asked, 'Silicon Valley? Where did that come from?' The marketing manager said, 'Oh, that's what the guys are calling it.' We discussed our interest regarding the name created by industry managers, and then moved on to other topics. On the way back to the office, I said to Don, 'Cool name, huh?' He smirked. When we returned to the office, Don, who was finishing his story, changed the headline and sent it to EN's headquarters in New York. The following Monday, his story appeared under the bold title: 'SILICON VALLEY, USA.' And that’s how the world learned about Silicon Valley."
It is worth noting that sometimes the name "Silicon Valley" is incorrectly translated, remaining as "Siliсon Valley." The confusion arises because the English word for silicon (Si) is "silicon," while the popular material used in beauty enhancements, silicone, is "silicone."
Church Holiday on January 11
On January 11, Christians honor the memory of St. Theodosius the Great. Theodosius was from Cappadocia. He sought a solitary life and settled in a desolate cave in Palestine. There he lived for 30 years in moderation and prayer. Gradually, followers of Theodosius began to gather around him, wishing to live under his guidance. When the place chosen for solitude could no longer accommodate people, he retreated into the desert, taking with him a censer with cold coals. Where the coals ignited, the saint founded a lavra. This place included not only houses for monks but also hospitals and shelters for the elderly. During his lifetime, St. Theodosius received the gift of healing and performed miracles. He peacefully passed away at the age of 105.
Folk Omens
If January 11 is a thaw, then spring will be early but prolonged.
Severe frost on this day indicates a good harvest of spring crops.
If the sky is clear, expect frosts.
What Not to Do on January 11
Do not accept gifts from acquaintances.
Do not cut nails or hair.
Do not borrow money.