1. In 1909, the first race was held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway featuring the Brickyard surface. Many New York race enthusiasts traveled to Indiana to witness this historic event.

2. On August 11, 1973, the drug Kingpin Nicky Barnes was arrested in Queens, New York. The leader of the Medellin drug cartel was one of the most high-profile drug lords during his time.

3. The New York World's Fair was held on August 11, 1939, many of the fair's most renowned exhibits were created by New York-based companies. Visitors were mesmerized by the futuristic exhibits and technology that was displayed throughout the fairgrounds.

4. In 2003 on August 11, the blackout that affected much of the Northeastern United States occurred. New York City was plunged into darkness, and it took several hours for power to be restored.

5. On August 11, 1975, Governor Hugh Carey of New York officially declared the state in a fiscal emergency. This move allowed him to access federal funds to help stabilize the state's economy.