Historical Events on February 21: Significant Moments in History

Throughout history, certain dates stand out for the remarkable events that unfolded on them. From turning points in politics to cultural breakthroughs, these days often carry significance that echoes through time. Explore the most important events that occurred on February 21, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

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Events on February 21 - Key Moments Throughout History

  • 1900 Establishment of the Davis Cup Tennis Trophy: Dwight F. Davis, president of the United States National Lawn Tennis Association (USNLTA), officially announced the creation of an international tennis championship trophy in Boston. Davis personally donated a prestigious silver bowl to be awarded to the winning nation, marking the inception of what would become one of the most significant international tennis competitions. The inaugural competition was set to take place in August between the United Kingdom and the United States, establishing a landmark moment in international tennis history.
  • 1901 Uneventful Day in Early 20th Century: February 21, 1901, appears to be a relatively unremarkable day in world history. At the turn of the century, this period marked the transition from the Victorian era to the Edwardian era, with significant global changes brewing in politics, technology, and society. While no specific events are documented for this exact date, it was a time of emerging industrialization, colonial expansions, and technological innovations.
  • 1902 First Brain Surgery by Dr. Harvey Cushing: Dr. Harvey Cushing, a pioneering neurosurgeon, performed his first brain operation, marking a significant milestone in medical history. This groundbreaking procedure would help establish modern neurosurgical techniques and pave the way for future advancements in brain surgery.
  • 1903 US Army War College Cornerstone Laid: The cornerstone for the U.S. Army War College was laid in Washington, D.C., marking an important milestone in military education and strategic planning. This institution would become a critical center for advanced military studies and leadership training.
  • 1904 Religious Service for Russia during Russo-Japanese War: In Prague, a Russian Orthodox church conducted an intercession service praying for Russia's success in the ongoing Russo-Japanese War. The service drew several hundred attendees, reflecting the public's engagement and concern about the military conflict.
  • 1905 Creation of Alberta and Saskatchewan Provinces: On February 21, 1905, Sir Wilfrid Laurier, the Prime Minister of Canada, introduced a pivotal resolution in the Canadian parliament proposing the establishment of two new provinces: Alberta and Saskatchewan. This legislative initiative was a significant milestone in Canada's territorial and administrative development, expanding the nation's western frontier and providing formal provincial status to these regions.
  • 1906 Uneventful Day in 1906: While no specific major historical events were recorded for February 21, 1906, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. During this period, the early 20th century was marked by significant global transformations, including technological advancements, colonial expansions, and emerging social movements. The year 1906 itself was notable for various developments in politics, science, and industry.
  • 1907 Birth of W.H. Auden: W.H. Auden, a renowned English-American poet who significantly influenced 20th-century poetry, was born. Auden would later become a pivotal figure in modernist poetry, known for his complex linguistic style and profound exploration of social and political themes.
  • 1908 Uneventful Day in Early 20th Century: While no specific notable historical events were recorded for February 21, 1908, this date falls within the early Progressive Era in the United States, a period of social and political reform. The world was experiencing significant technological and social transformations during this time, with industrialization, urbanization, and emerging global communications reshaping society.
  • 1909 Ethnic Riots in Omaha, Nebraska: A significant ethnic riot erupted in Omaha, Nebraska, involving a mob of approximately 3,000 men and boys who violently targeted the Greek section of the city, centered around 26th and Q Streets. The riot was triggered by the killing of an Omaha policeman by a Greek resident two days prior, revealing underlying racial and ethnic tensions of the early 20th century.
  • 1910 Establishment of Mexican Red Cross: The Cruz Roja de Mexicana was established by presidential decree, becoming Mexico's national branch of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Beyond disaster assistance, the organization serves as the country's primary ambulance service. Notably, Mexican law grants Cruz Roja emergency workers exclusive legal authorization to provide first aid for accident and crime victims.
  • 1911 Gustav Mahler's Final Concert Performance: On February 21, 1911, renowned composer and conductor Gustav Mahler led his final concert with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra. During this poignant performance, he premiered Ferruccio Busoni's Berceuse élégiaque, marking a significant moment in classical music history. This concert would be one of Mahler's last public appearances before his untimely death, symbolizing the end of an extraordinary musical era.
  • 1913 Ioannina Incorporated into Greece: On February 21, 1913, the city of Ioannina, a historically significant urban center in Epirus region, was officially incorporated into the Greek state following the conclusion of the Balkan Wars. This territorial acquisition marked a crucial moment in the expansion of modern Greece and represented a significant geopolitical shift in the Balkan Peninsula, reflecting the ongoing territorial reorganization after the decline of Ottoman imperial control.
  • 1914 Battle of Verdun Begins: The Battle of Verdun, one of the longest and most devastating battles of World War I, commences between French and German forces in northeastern France. Over the next 10 months, the battle will become a brutal symbol of the war's attrition, with both sides suffering massive casualties. Approximately 700,000 soldiers will be killed or wounded, making it one of the bloodiest engagements in human history. The battle represents a critical moment in World War I, where strategic objectives gave way to a grueling war of attrition that would fundamentally reshape modern warfare.
  • 1915 Russian Army Corps Surrender in World War I: During the Second Battle of the Masurian Lakes in World War I, the 20th Russian Army Corps was forced to surrender to German forces in the Augustów Primeval Forest region of Poland. This significant military engagement represented a major defeat for Russian imperial forces on the Eastern Front.
  • 1916 Battle of Verdun: A Pivotal World War I Conflict: On February 21, 1916, one of the most devastating and prolonged battles of World War I commenced near Verdun, France. The Imperial German Army, under the command of Crown Prince Wilhelm, launched a massive offensive involving approximately 1.25 million soldiers. The battle began with an unprecedented artillery bombardment, followed by a strategic ground advance by the German Fifth Army, aiming to break through French defensive lines.
  • 1917 HMS Mendi Disaster: The British ship HMS Mendi sank off the Isle of Wight, resulting in a tragic loss of 627 lives. This maritime disaster was particularly significant as many of the victims were members of the South African Native Labour Corps, who were serving in World War I.
  • 1918 British Forces Capture Jericho in Palestine: As part of the British campaign in the Middle Eastern theater of World War I, British forces successfully captured the historic city of Jericho in Palestine. This strategic military operation was part of the broader effort to push back Ottoman Turkish forces from the region.
  • 1919 German National Meeting Considers Anschluss: The German National Meeting discussed and accepted the potential incorporation (Anschluss) of Austria, a significant political development in the aftermath of World War I that would later have profound implications for European geopolitics.
  • 1920 Nicholas Horthy Becomes Regent of Hungary: In a pivotal parliamentary vote, Admiral Nicholas Horthy is named Regent for the vacant throne of the Kingdom of Hungary, a significant political development in the aftermath of World War I and the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
  • 1921 Rezā Shāh's Tehran Coup: Rezā Khan successfully executed a military coup, taking control of Tehran and marking a significant turning point in Persian political history. This event would ultimately lead to the establishment of the Pahlavi Dynasty and fundamental transformations in Iran's governance and modernization.
  • 1922 Egyptian Independence: Great Britain formally granted independence to Egypt, marking a significant milestone in the decolonization process and representing a pivotal moment in Egypt's modern political history. This event signaled a major shift in British imperial policy and Egyptian national sovereignty.
  • 1923 Truce in the Egan-Hogan Gang Conflict: On February 21, 1923, a temporary and fragile truce was established between two prominent organized crime groups in the United States: Egan's Rats and the Hogan Gang. This uneasy peace momentarily halted the ongoing territorial and criminal disputes in St. Louis, Missouri, which had been marked by violent confrontations and retaliatory attacks. The truce represented a rare moment of restraint in the otherwise volatile landscape of early 20th-century urban organized crime.
  • 1924 Birth of Robert Mugabe: Robert Mugabe was born in Kutama, Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). He would later become a prominent political figure, serving as the second President of Zimbabwe from 1987 to 2017. Mugabe was a key leader in Zimbabwe's independence movement and a controversial political figure known for his long and complex political career.
  • 1925 DNA Structure Discovery Breakthrough: Francis Crick informed his wife by letter about a groundbreaking scientific discovery: he and James Watson had uncovered the structure of DNA, a pivotal moment in understanding the molecular basis of genetics and life itself.
  • 1926 Death of Nobel Laureate Heike Kamerlingh Onnes: Heike Kamerlingh Onnes, a renowned Dutch physicist who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1913 for his groundbreaking work on the properties of matter at extremely low temperatures, passed away at the age of 72. Kamerlingh Onnes is best known for his pioneering research in cryogenics and for achieving the first successful liquefaction of helium, which was a significant milestone in scientific understanding of matter's behavior at ultra-low temperatures.
  • 1927 Nicaragua Seeks U.S. Protectorate Status: On February 21, 1927, Nicaragua's President Adolfo Díaz formally requested that the United States establish a protectorate over his nation, proposing a comprehensive 100-year treaty that would grant significant American oversight and control. This request came during a period of political instability and economic challenges in Nicaragua, reflecting the complex geopolitical dynamics of U.S. interventionism in Latin America during the early 20th century.
  • 1928 Teapot Dome Scandal: Sinclair Found Guilty of Jury Tampering: Industrialist Harry Ford Sinclair and three associates were convicted of criminal contempt of court for jury shadowing during the Teapot Dome scandal trial. Sinclair was sentenced to six months in prison, marking a significant moment in early 20th-century judicial accountability and political corruption investigations.
  • 1929 Warlord Rebellion Battle in Shandong: In the first significant battle of the Warlord Rebellion in northeastern Shandong, China, a 24,000-strong rebel force led by Zhang Zongchang was decisively defeated at Zhifu by 7,000 National Revolutionary Army (NRA) troops, marking a critical moment in the Chinese Civil War period.
  • 1930 Camille Chautemps Becomes French Prime Minister: On February 21, 1930, Camille Chautemps assumed the role of Prime Minister of France, taking leadership during a period of political transition in the Third French Republic. Chautemps was a prominent Radical Party politician known for his moderate political stance and efforts to stabilize the French government during the interwar period.
  • 1931 First Aircraft Hijacking in Peru: On February 21, 1931, the first recorded aircraft hijacking in history took place in Arequipa, Peru. Peruvian revolutionaries seized a Ford Tri-Motor aircraft operated by Peruvian Airways and compelled the pilot to drop propaganda leaflets over Lima, marking a significant moment in aviation and political protest history.
  • 1932 Trotsky's Banishment from Soviet Union: Leon Trotsky, a prominent Bolshevik revolutionary and key figure in the Russian Revolution, was officially banished from the Soviet Union along with 36 other political opponents by Joseph Stalin, marking a critical moment in the consolidation of Stalin's power.
  • 1933 Birth of Nina Simone: Nina Simone, born Eunice Kathleen Waymon, was a groundbreaking African American musician who profoundly influenced jazz, blues, folk, and R&B music. Her powerful voice and passionate commitment to civil rights made her not just a musical icon, but also a significant cultural figure of the 20th century. Known for transformative songs like 'Mississippi Goddam' and 'Young, Gifted and Black', Simone used her art as a platform for social justice and racial equality during the tumultuous Civil Rights Movement.
  • 1934 Assassination of Augusto César Sandino: Augusto César Sandino, a prominent Nicaraguan revolutionary and national hero, was assassinated by the Nicaraguan National Guard in Managua. This event marked a significant moment in Nicaragua's political history, eliminating a key resistance leader who had fought against U.S. military intervention and the Somoza regime.
  • 1935 Nazi Germany Prohibits Martin Buber from Lecturing: On February 21, 1935, the Nazi regime escalated its systematic persecution of Jewish intellectuals by officially prohibiting Martin Buber, a prominent Jewish philosopher and scholar, from delivering lectures to Jewish organizations. This action was part of the broader Nazi strategy to marginalize and suppress Jewish cultural and academic contributions, reflecting the regime's growing antisemitic policies in the lead-up to the Holocaust.
  • 1936 Spanish Government Releases Political Prisoners: In a landmark humanitarian gesture, the newly formed Spanish government orders the release of 34,000 political prisoners. This significant action represents a major shift in political approach and signals potential reconciliation efforts following periods of political tension.
  • 1937 First Issue of Detective Comics Published: In March 1937, Detective Comics was first published in the United States, marking the beginning of a legendary comic book series. The publication would later become historically significant when it introduced Batman in its 27th issue, eventually becoming the longest continuously published comic book in American history.
  • 1938 Anthony Eden Resigns as UK Foreign Secretary: Anthony Eden dramatically resigned from his position as Foreign Secretary, expressing growing ideological differences with Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain. His resignation came at a critical moment in pre-World War II diplomatic relations, signaling underlying tensions in the British government's approach to international tensions, particularly regarding the rising threat of Nazi Germany.
  • 1939 Nazi Rally at Madison Square Garden: The German American Bund organized a controversial Nazi rally at Madison Square Garden, attended by 20,000 people. The event featured a provocative stage with George Washington's portrait flanked by swastikas, drawing approximately 100,000 anti-Nazi counter-protesters.
  • 1940 Auschwitz Location Recommendation: Richard Glücks, head of the Concentration Camps Inspectorate, recommended a location in Poland for a 'quarantine' camp, which would tragically become the infamous Auschwitz concentration camp, a site of immense human suffering during the Holocaust.
  • 1941 Death of Frederick Banting, Nobel Laureate: Frederick Banting, the renowned 49-year-old Canadian medical scientist and Nobel Prize winner, tragically died from injuries sustained in a plane crash. Banting was a pivotal figure in medical history, best known for his groundbreaking work in discovering insulin and its potential for treating diabetes.
  • 1942 Tolan Committee Hearings Begin: The House Select Committee Investigating National Defense Migration (Tolan Committee) commenced hearings to examine issues surrounding enemy aliens on the West Coast of the United States during World War II, reflecting the complex social and security tensions of the era.
  • 1943 Dutch Catholic Bishops Protest Nazi Jewish Persecution: In a bold act of moral resistance, the Dutch Roman Catholic bishops publicly denounced the Nazi regime's systematic persecution of Jews, marking a significant moment of ecclesiastical opposition to the Holocaust.
  • 1944 Churchill Mediates Polish-Soviet Diplomatic Tensions: British Prime Minister Winston Churchill attempted to mediate between the Polish government-in-exile and the Soviet Union. He proposed accepting the Curzon Line as a diplomatic boundary and suggested restructuring the Polish government to be more amenable to Soviet cooperation. However, Stalin remained skeptical of the proposal.
  • 1945 Allied Forces Break Through Siegfried Line: During World War II, Allied forces successfully penetrated the formidable Siegfried Line, a critical defensive fortification along Germany's western border, marking a significant strategic advancement in the European theater.
  • 1946 Post-World War II Anti-Colonial Uprisings: Widespread anti-colonial demonstrations erupted across multiple Asian territories, including Egypt, India, Singapore, and Indonesia. These uprisings reflected growing nationalist sentiments and resistance against British colonial rule in the immediate aftermath of World War II.
  • 1947 Truman's Post-War Relief Proposal: President Harry S. Truman recommended a $350 million congressional appropriation to provide relief and support for countries devastated by World War II, demonstrating the United States' commitment to international reconstruction.
  • 1948 1948 Czechoslovak Coup d'État: The 1948 Czechoslovak coup d'état began with President Edvard Beneš issuing a statement that recognized the Communists' right to head the government while attempting to prevent them from establishing a totalitarian regime. This event marked a critical moment in Czechoslovakia's political transformation, signaling the Communist Party's growing power and the erosion of democratic processes.
  • 1949 Death of Tan Malaka, Indonesian Nationalist: Tan Malaka, a prominent Indonesian nationalist activist and guerrilla fighter, passed away. He was a crucial figure in Indonesia's struggle for independence, known for his radical political views and resistance against colonial powers.
  • 1950 RMS Aquitania Reaches End of Historic Maritime Career: The legendary Cunard liner RMS Aquitania, which served for an impressive 36 years, arrived at the scrapyard in Faslane, marking the conclusion of one of the most remarkable maritime careers of the 20th century. Known as the 'Ship Beautiful', the Aquitania was a symbol of transatlantic travel and maritime engineering during her long service period.
  • 1951 Political Leadership in US and UK: On February 21, 1951, Harry S. Truman, a Democrat, was serving as the President of the United States, while Clement Attlee, from the Labour Party, was the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
  • 1952 Language Martyrs' Day in East Pakistan: A pivotal moment in the linguistic and cultural struggle of Bengali-speaking people, marking the Language Revolution in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). Students and activists protested against the imposition of Urdu as the sole national language, demanding recognition for the Bengali language.
  • 1953 Discovery of DNA Double Helix Structure: Francis Crick and James D. Watson made a groundbreaking scientific discovery by elucidating the double helix structure of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), a pivotal moment in molecular biology that would revolutionize our understanding of genetics, heredity, and life itself.
  • 1954 President Eisenhower Attends Church Service in Palm Springs: On February 21, 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower attended a church service at the Palm Springs Community Church. The religious gathering was part of the President's visit to the California desert community, reflecting the era's strong connection between political leadership and public religious participation. Reverend James H. was also present during the service.
  • 1955 Birth of Kelsey Grammer: Kelsey Grammer, renowned American actor and comedian best known for his iconic role as Dr. Frasier Crane in the television series 'Cheers' and its spin-off 'Frasier', was born in Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. Throughout his career, Grammer has won multiple Emmy and Golden Globe Awards, establishing himself as a prominent figure in television comedy.
  • 1956 First Mapping of the Gibson Desert: On February 21, 1956, Australian explorer and surveyor Len Beadell completed the first comprehensive mapping of the Gibson Desert, located in Western Australia. This significant cartographic achievement provided crucial geographical insights into one of Australia's most remote and challenging desert landscapes. Beadell, known for his pioneering work in mapping Australia's interior, used advanced surveying techniques to document the terrain, geological features, and potential routes through this previously uncharted wilderness.
  • 1957 Ben-Gurion Addresses Knesset on US Relations: On February 21, 1957, Israeli Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion delivered a significant address to the Knesset, discussing diplomatic relations with the United States. He informed the assembly that Ambassador Abba Eban would be returning to the United States to communicate the Israeli government's official position, highlighting the complex geopolitical dynamics of the mid-1950s Middle East.
  • 1958 Creation of the Peace Symbol: The iconic CND (Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament) symbol, now globally recognized as the peace symbol, is designed and completed by British artist Gerald Holtom in protest against the Atomic Weapons Research Establishment.
  • 1960 Cuban Nationalization of Businesses: Cuban leader Fidel Castro implemented a sweeping nationalization policy, seizing and bringing all private businesses under government control. This radical economic measure dramatically transformed Cuba's economic landscape and marked a significant moment in the country's communist revolution.
  • 1961 Mercury-Atlas 2 Space Test: The Mercury-Atlas 2 spacecraft conducted a critical reentry test, reaching an altitude of 172 kilometers, contributing to NASA's early space exploration efforts.
  • 1962 Kennedy's Public Welfare Address: U.S. President John F. Kennedy delivered a comprehensive address focusing on public welfare, proposing innovative federal assistance programs including job training initiatives and childcare support for working parents, signaling a progressive approach to social policy.
  • 1963 Telstar Satellite Destroyed by Radiation: Telstar, the pioneering first commercial communications satellite, was rendered inoperable due to radiation damage. This event highlighted the challenges of early satellite technology and space environment risks.
  • 1964 Failed Assassination Attempt on Turkish Prime Minister: An assassination attempt against Turkish Prime Minister İsmet İnönü was thwarted when the would-be assassin failed to hit the target despite being at close range, firing three shots that missed. This incident highlights the political tensions and security challenges in Turkey during the mid-1960s.
  • 1965 Assassination of Malcolm X: El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz (Malcolm X), a prominent African American nationalist and religious leader, was assassinated in New York City while addressing his Organization of Afro-American Unity. The assassination was carried out by rival members of the Nation of Islam at the Audubon Ballroom, marking a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement.
  • 1966 France Withdraws from NATO's Integrated Military Command: In a significant geopolitical move, French President Charles de Gaulle announces France's withdrawal from the integrated military command of NATO during a press conference at the Élysée Palace. This decision was driven by concerns about potential American involvement in Vietnam and the risk of being drawn into a broader global conflict. The withdrawal marked a pivotal moment in Cold War diplomacy and France's independent foreign policy stance.
  • 1967 Indian National Parliamentary Election: The five-day national parliamentary election for the Lok Sabha concluded with the Indian National Congress party, led by Indira Gandhi, securing a decisive victory. This election was significant in solidifying Indira Gandhi's political leadership and setting the stage for her transformative tenure as Prime Minister of India.
  • 1968 West Berlin Anti-Leftist Demonstration: A massive demonstration of 150,000 people took place in West Berlin, protesting against leftist student movements during a period of significant political tension in Germany.
  • 1969 Soviet N-1 Rocket Launch Failure: First launch attempt of the massive N-1 rocket at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, which ended in a catastrophic explosion. This was part of the Soviet Union's lunar program and represented a significant setback in the Space Race.
  • 1970 Jackson 5 Television Debut: The Jackson 5, featuring young Michael Jackson, made their groundbreaking television debut on 'American Bandstand', launching their path to becoming one of the most iconic musical groups in pop culture history.
  • 1971 Deadly Tornado Outbreak in Mississippi and Louisiana: A series of devastating tornadoes swept through the Mississippi and Louisiana regions, causing widespread destruction and claiming 117 lives. The outbreak was one of the most significant natural disasters of 1971, leaving a trail of devastation across the southern United States.
  • 1972 Nixon's Historic China Visit: U.S. President Richard Nixon made a groundbreaking diplomatic visit to the People's Republic of China, marking the first time a sitting U.S. president had visited the country since the Communist revolution. This landmark trip aimed to normalize diplomatic relations between the two nations and strategically counterbalance Soviet influence during the Cold War.
  • 1973 Libyan Arab Airlines Flight 114 Incident: On February 21, 1973, Israeli fighter aircraft shot down Libyan Arab Airlines Flight 114 over the Sinai Desert, resulting in the tragic death of 108 passengers and crew members. The incident occurred when the civilian airliner strayed into Israeli-controlled airspace during a period of heightened tensions in the Middle East. Two Israeli F-4 Phantom II fighters intercepted the plane and fired 20mm gunfire, damaging the aircraft's controls and ultimately causing its destruction.
  • 1974 Kissinger's Tlatelolco Conference Address: U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger delivered a pivotal speech at the Conference of Tlatelolco in Mexico City, proposing a 'New Dialogue' among Western Hemisphere nations and articulating American diplomatic objectives for regional cooperation.
  • 1975 Watergate Scandal: Key Nixon Aides Sentenced: John Mitchell, former White House Chief of Staff H.R. Haldeman, and Domestic Policy Advisor John D. Ehrlichman were sentenced to 2.5 to 8 years in prison for their roles in the Watergate scandal, marking a significant moment in American political accountability.
  • 1976 Ford Discusses Hoover Commission Potential: President Gerald Ford met with Senator Hugh Scott (R-Pennsylvania), Robert E. Merriam, Bryce N. Harlow, and William T. Coleman to explore the possibility of establishing a new 'Hoover Commission', which would likely focus on government efficiency and organizational reforms.
  • 1977 Fatal Industrial Accident in San Francisco: A tragic workplace fatality occurred on February 21, 1977, when a maintenance worker was killed while attempting to repair a blade in a large industrial blender at the Food-Maker, Inc. plant in San Francisco. The incident highlights the significant occupational hazards present in industrial manufacturing environments during the late 1970s.
  • 1978 Discovery of Great Pyramid of Tenochtitlan: On February 21, 1978, electrical workers in Mexico City made a groundbreaking archaeological discovery when they unearthed the remains of the Great Pyramid of Tenochtitlan, a monumental structure at the heart of the ancient Aztec capital. This unexpected find occurred during routine excavation work, revealing a significant piece of pre-Columbian history hidden beneath the modern urban landscape.
  • 1979 Tanzania-Uganda Conflict: During the Uganda-Tanzania War, Tanzanian forces successfully routed Ugandan troops from the hill country and captured the strategic town of Mbarara, marking a significant military advancement in the conflict.
  • 1980 Eric Heiden's Historic Olympic Achievement: Eric Heiden made history by becoming the first athlete to win five gold medals in a single Winter Olympics, dominating all five speed skating events at the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, a remarkable feat of athletic excellence.
  • 1981 Capture of the Yorkshire Ripper: Peter Sutcliffe, a notorious serial killer known as the Yorkshire Ripper, was finally apprehended by law enforcement after a reign of terror that resulted in the murder of 13 women across Northern England. His capture brought significant relief to communities that had lived in fear during his killing spree.
  • 1982 Broadway Musical 'Ain't Misbehavin'' Concludes Long Run: The popular Broadway musical 'Ain't Misbehavin'', a tribute to Fats Waller's music, concluded its impressive run at the Longacre Theater in New York City after 1,604 performances, marking a significant moment in theatrical history.
  • 1983 NBA San Diego Clippers Road Losing Streak: On February 21, 1983, the San Diego Clippers (now the Los Angeles Clippers) began an unprecedented 29-game road losing streak, which remains one of the most notorious records in NBA history. This extraordinary run of consecutive road defeats highlighted the team's significant struggles during that period.
  • 1984 Remembering Mikhail Sholokhov: Mikhail Aleksandrovich Sholokhov, a prominent Russian writer renowned for his epic novels about the Don Cossacks and a Nobel Prize in Literature laureate, is commemorated. Best known for works like 'And Quiet Flows the Don', Sholokhov was a significant literary figure who captured the tumultuous social changes in early 20th-century Russia.
  • 1985 Tim Raines Secures Major Baseball Contract: Major League Baseball player Tim Raines was awarded a significant salary of US$12 million for the 1985 season through arbitration, marking a notable moment in baseball contract negotiations.
  • 1986 Legend of Zelda Famicom Release: Nintendo released 'The Legend of Zelda' for the Famicom in Japan, launching a revolutionary video game franchise that would become one of the most iconic and influential in gaming history.
  • 1987 Syrian Military Intervention in Beirut: Syrian army strategically marches into Beirut, Lebanon, further complicating the ongoing Lebanese Civil War and demonstrating Syria's regional military influence.
  • 1988 Jimmy Swaggart's Public Confession of Sin: Televangelist Jimmy Swaggart dramatically confessed to an unspecified moral transgression during a live television broadcast of his program in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He publicly acknowledged his guilt and announced he would be temporarily stepping away from his ministry, creating a significant media and religious controversy.
  • 1989 Major US Drug Bust: Chinese Heroin Ring Dismantled: United States law enforcement successfully intercepted a significant drug trafficking operation, capturing a record 820 pounds of heroin with an estimated street value of $1 billion. This major bust targeted a Chinese drug smuggling network, representing a substantial blow to international narcotics trade.
  • 1990 32nd Grammy Awards Highlights: The 32nd Annual Grammy Awards celebrated outstanding musical achievements, with notable wins for the song 'Wind Beneath My Wings' and the album 'Nick of Time'. These awards recognized significant contributions to music across various genres.
  • 1991 USSR Proposes Gulf War Resolution: The Soviet Union announces a diplomatic proposal to end the Persian Gulf War, which the United States immediately rejects as unacceptable, highlighting the complex international negotiations during the conflict.
  • 1992 UN Security Council Approves Peacekeeping Mission for Yugoslavia: The United Nations Security Council passed Resolution 743, authorizing the deployment of the United Nations Protection Force (UNPROFOR) to Yugoslavia. This marked a critical diplomatic intervention during the escalating Yugoslav Wars, aiming to stabilize the region and prevent further conflict.
  • 1993 Sergei Bubka Sets Indoor Pole Vault World Record: Ukrainian pole vaulter Sergei Bubka achieved a remarkable feat by setting a new indoor world record, clearing a height of 6.15 meters. This extraordinary performance further solidified Bubka's reputation as one of the greatest pole vaulters in athletic history.
  • 1994 Aldrich Ames Arrested for Espionage: CIA agent Aldrich Ames was arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Arlington County, Virginia, for selling highly classified national secrets to the Soviet Union. His extensive espionage activities, which occurred between 1985 and 1991, represented one of the most damaging counterintelligence breaches in U.S. history, compromising numerous CIA operations and leading to the deaths of multiple American intelligence assets.
  • 1995 Historic Balloon Solo Pacific Crossing: Adventurer Steve Fossett achieves a groundbreaking aviation milestone by becoming the first person to complete a solo balloon flight across the Pacific Ocean, landing in Leader, Saskatchewan, Canada.
  • 1996 Saudi Arabian Leadership Transition: King Fahd of Saudi Arabia publicly announces his medical recovery and resumes power from his brother, Crown Prince Abdullah, signaling stability in the Saudi royal leadership.
  • 1997 First Mammal Cloned from Adult Cell: Dolly the Sheep: On February 21, 1997, a groundbreaking scientific achievement was announced by a team of British scientists led by Ian Wilmut at the Roslin Institute near Edinburgh. They revealed the successful cloning of Dolly, the first mammal to be created from an adult somatic cell, marking a revolutionary moment in genetic research and biotechnology.
  • 1998 NBA Basketball Matches: Multiple NBA basketball games were played on February 21, 1998, featuring notable matchups including Charlotte Hornets defeating Los Angeles Clippers (111-98), Chicago Bulls narrowly beating Washington Wizards (94-88), and other competitive games across the league.
  • 1999 Lahore Declaration Signed: India and Pakistan signed the historic Lahore Declaration, a diplomatic agreement addressing nuclear weapons usage and attempting to reduce regional tensions between the two nations. This document represented a critical moment in South Asian geopolitical relations.
  • 2000 UNESCO Inaugurates International Mother Language Day: UNESCO officially establishes International Mother Language Day to promote linguistic diversity and multilingualism, recognizing the importance of preserving and celebrating indigenous languages worldwide. This day commemorates the language movement in Bangladesh and highlights the cultural significance of mother tongues in maintaining heritage and identity.
  • 2001 FBI Agent Charged with Espionage: In a significant counterintelligence case, an FBI agent was charged with spying for Russia, exposing critical vulnerabilities within U.S. intelligence agencies and reigniting Cold War-era security concerns.
  • 2002 Canadian Women's Hockey Team Wins Olympic Gold: The Canadian women's ice hockey team secured a historic gold medal at the Salt Lake City Winter Olympics, defeating the United States 3-2 in a thrilling match. This victory marked the beginning of a remarkable era of dominance for Canadian women's hockey, as they would go on to win four consecutive Olympic gold medals.
  • 2003 The Station Nightclub Fire in Rhode Island: A devastating fire broke out during a Great White concert at The Station nightclub in West Warwick, Rhode Island, resulting in the tragic deaths of over 100 concert attendees. The incident became one of the deadliest nightclub fires in U.S. history, highlighting critical safety concerns in entertainment venues.
  • 2004 British Anti-Terror Laws Spark Human Rights Controversy: British MPs and human rights groups challenge Prime Minister Tony Blair over the Anti-Terrorism Crime and Security Act, criticizing its broad powers that allow detention of foreign terrorist suspects without trial, drawing comparisons to the Guantanamo Bay detention camp.
  • 2005 Israel Releases Palestinian Prisoners: Israel released 500 Palestinian prisoners as a goodwill gesture to Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas, with plans to release an additional 400 prisoners in the following three months, signaling potential diplomatic progress.
  • 2006 Ratko Mladic Arrest Rumors Emerge: Belgrade's Studio B TV reported the potential arrest of former Bosnian Serb Army general Ratko Mladic, who is wanted by the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia for his role in the Srebrenica massacre of 8,000 boys and men in 1995. Serbian officials denied the report, calling it government-damaging manipulation.
  • 2007 Iran Defies UN Nuclear Program Deadline: Iran disregarded the deadline set by the United Nations Security Council for suspending its nuclear program, escalating international tensions and concerns about nuclear proliferation.
  • 2008 Belgrade Embassy Riots: In Belgrade, Serbia, protesters stormed and set fire to the US Embassy, with attacks also targeting British, German, Croatian, and Turkish embassies. The riots were a response to Kosovo's declaration of independence.
  • 2009 Civilian Casualties in Afghanistan: A tragic incident occurred in Guzara, Herat, Afghanistan, where 13 people were killed by the International Security Assistance Force, highlighting the ongoing challenges in the region.
  • 2010 63rd British Academy Film Awards Celebrate 'The Hurt Locker': The 63rd British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs) were held, with 'The Hurt Locker' winning Best Film and Kathryn Bigelow receiving Best Director, highlighting significant achievements in cinema.
  • 2011 Arab Spring Uprising: A significant wave of pro-democracy protests and revolutions sweeping across multiple Arab countries, challenging long-standing authoritarian regimes and demanding political reforms, human rights, and economic opportunities.
  • 2012 Syrian Uprising Escalates: The 2011-2012 Syrian uprising continues with intense violence, marking a critical period of civil conflict that would dramatically reshape the Middle East's geopolitical landscape.
  • 2013 Severe Car Bombings in Damascus during Syrian Civil War: A devastating car bombing near Damascus' Baath Party headquarters resulted in at least 61 deaths and over 200 injuries. In the Barzeh suburb, three additional bombings killed 22 people and injured 50 more, primarily government soldiers. These attacks represented the most severe violence in Syria's capital since the civil war's inception.
  • 2014 Deadly Kiev Protest Crackdown: Ukrainian police open fire on protesters in Kiev, resulting in 27 fatalities and approximately 570 injuries, marking a violent escalation of the Euromaidan protests.
  • 2015 Western Powers Consider Sanctions Against Russia: The United States and United Kingdom discussed potential new sanctions against Russia for violating the ceasefire in the Donbass region of Ukraine. Simultaneously, a prisoner exchange was completed between the Ukrainian Army and rebel separatists.
  • 2016 Syrian Civil War: Homs and Sayyidah Zaynab Bombings: On February 21, 2016, two devastating terrorist attacks struck Syria. In Homs, two bomb explosions killed at least 57 people and injured over 100. In Sayyidah Zaynab, Damascus, a series of bombings resulted in 83 deaths and 178 injuries. The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) claimed responsibility for both attacks, highlighting the ongoing violence in the Syrian Civil War.
  • 2017 Trump Administration Immigration Policy: The Trump Administration released a comprehensive memo outlining the policy for deportation of undocumented immigrants accused of criminal activities, signaling a significant shift in immigration enforcement.
  • 2018 Humanitarian Crisis in Syria's Eastern Ghouta: A UN official described the bombing in Syria's Eastern Ghouta as 'beyond imagination', with at least 250 people killed, including 50 children, and approximately 1,200 injured. The Syrian government continues military operations against the last major opposition stronghold near Damascus.
  • 2019 Putin Warns of Potential Missile Crisis: Russian President Vladimir Putin declared Russia's military readiness for a potential 'Cuban Missile-style Crisis' in response to U.S. missile installations in Europe, escalating tensions between the two nations.
  • 2020 Roger Stone Sentencing: In a significant legal development related to the Russian election interference investigation, longtime Trump adviser Roger Stone was sentenced to 40 months in prison. The federal judge found him guilty of lying to Congress and witness tampering, with actions deemed to be an attempt to obstruct the investigation and potentially protect President Trump.
  • 2021 Historic Democratic Transfer of Power in Niger: Mohamed Bazoum, the former interior minister, won the presidential election in Niger, achieving a landmark moment for the country by marking the first peaceful democratic transition of power in this economically challenged West African nation. This election represents a significant step towards democratic consolidation in a region often characterized by political instability.
  • 2022 Russian Recognition of Separatist Republics in Ukraine: On February 21, 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin officially declared the Luhansk and Donetsk People's Republics as independent states, unilaterally breaking away from Ukraine. Putin then ordered Russian troops to move into these regions, escalating tensions in the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian conflict. The international community, particularly the United Nations, strongly condemned this action as a violation of Ukraine's territorial sovereignty.
  • 2023 Biden Reaffirms US Support for Ukraine in Warsaw Speech: On February 21, 2023, US President Joe Biden delivered a powerful speech from Warsaw Castle in Poland, emphasizing the United States' unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. This speech came one day after Biden's historic surprise visit to Kyiv, where he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and demonstrated solidarity with the Ukrainian people during the Russian invasion.

What Is special about February 21?

February 21 is notable for a variety of important historical, cultural, and significant events, including famous birthdays and deaths, holidays and more. Find out everything about February 21.