On This Day - April 11, 2026

United States Navy acquired its first modern commissioned submarine. Designed by Irish-American inventor John Phillip Holland in 1896, the cost to the U.S. Navy was $160,000.

First baseman Jackie Robinson signs a contract with the Brooklyn Dodgers one day after the team purchased his contract from the Montreal Royals of the International League. Later the same day, Robinson plays an exhibition game against the New York Yankees, driving in three runs. Dodgers win 14-6.

Apollo 13 launches from the Kennedy Space Center in Brevard County, Florida. The crew included astronauts James Lovel, John Swigert, and Fred W. Haise.

Cher wins the Best Actress Academy Award for her role in Moonstruck.