1. In 1861, Florida seceded from the United States on March 11, joining the Confederacy during the American Civil War. The state's decision to secede was met with mixed reactions from the population, with some in favor of leaving the Union and others opposed.

2. On March 11, 1885, the first train arrived in Miami, marking the beginning of the city's growth as a transportation hub and tourist destination. The train brought visitors and goods from around the country, spurring economic development and growth in the region.

3. In 1997, the first Mardi Gras celebration was held in Pensacola on March 11. The event has since become an annual tradition, attracting thousands of visitors each year to enjoy the music, parades, and festivities.

4. On March 11, 1979, a devastating tornado struck the city of Fort Myers, causing extensive damage and claiming several lives. The tornado was part of a larger outbreak of severe weather across the southeastern United States that week.

5. In 2011, Governor Rick Scott signed a controversial bill into law on March 11 that required drug testing for welfare recipients. The law faced legal challenges and criticism for being unconstitutional and discriminatory, and was eventually struck down by the courts.