Historical Events on July 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 July 21, revealing the lasting impact they've had on the world.

Events on July 21 - Key Moments Throughout History

1900 Martyrdom of Alberic Crescitelli in China: Alberic Crescitelli, an Italian Catholic missionary, was executed by Boxer rebels during the Boxer Rebellion in China. His martyrdom was a significant moment in the religious conflicts of the time. Later recognized for his sacrifice, Crescitelli was beatified as one of the Martyr Saints of China, symbolizing the challenges faced by Christian missionaries in late 19th-century China.
1901 Birth of Allyn Joslyn, American Actor: Allyn Joslyn was born in Milford, Pennsylvania, who would later become a notable character actor in Hollywood during the mid-20th century. Known for his roles in films like 'They Won't Forget' and 'Cafe Society', Joslyn contributed to the golden age of American cinema with his distinctive performances.
1902 Founding of Fluminense Football Club: Fluminense Football Club was established in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, marking a significant moment in the country's sporting history. The club would go on to become one of the most prestigious football teams in Brazil, playing a crucial role in the development of football in the region.
1903 Roy Neuberger: Prominent American Financier and Art Patron: Roy Neuberger was a distinguished American financier, investment professional, and renowned art collector who made significant contributions to the financial world and cultural landscape of the 20th century. He was known for his innovative investment strategies and his passionate support of contemporary American artists.
1904 Completion of the Trans-Siberian Railway: After a monumental 13-year construction effort, the Trans-Siberian Railway is completed, connecting Moscow to Vladivostok across 4,607 miles of challenging terrain. This engineering marvel represents a significant milestone in Russian infrastructure and transportation, dramatically reducing travel time across the vast Russian Empire and facilitating economic and cultural exchange.
1905 USS Bennington Explosion: On July 21, 1905, a catastrophic boiler explosion occurred aboard the USS Bennington while the ship was docked in San Diego, California. The devastating incident resulted in the tragic deaths of 60 crew members and injured many others. The explosion was primarily caused by a critical failure in the ship's steam boiler system, highlighting the dangerous working conditions and technological limitations of naval engineering in the early 20th century.
1906 Dreyfus Reinstated in French Army: On July 21, 1906, Alfred Dreyfus was officially reinstated in the French Army, marking the culmination of a landmark legal and political saga that exposed deep-seated antisemitism and systemic injustice in late 19th-century France. After years of wrongful conviction for treason, public controversy, and intense political debate, Dreyfus was fully exonerated, promoted to the rank of Major, and awarded the Legion of Honor. This event symbolized a critical moment of judicial reform and a turning point in French civil rights, demonstrating the power of persistent advocacy and the eventual triumph of truth over prejudice.
1907 SS Columbia Maritime Disaster: On July 21, 1907, the passenger steamer SS Columbia collided with the lumber schooner San Pedro off Shelter Cove, California, resulting in a tragic maritime accident that claimed 88 lives. The collision occurred in coastal waters, leading to the sinking of the SS Columbia and significant loss of life.
1908 Uneventful Day in 1908: While no major historical events were documented for July 21, 1908, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. Daily life continued across the world, with people engaging in their usual activities during the early 20th century. This period was characterized by ongoing industrialization, social changes, and geopolitical developments that were gradually transforming global society.
1909 Mohammad Ali Shah Qajar Flees to Russian Embassy During Persian Constitutional Revolution: Mohammad Ali Shah Qajar, the Shah of Persia (Iran), was forced to flee to the Russian embassy after rebel armies supporting the Constitutional Revolution poured into the Persian capital of Tehran. This event marked a critical moment in the struggle between the monarchy and constitutional reformers, signaling the weakening of the Shah's absolute power.
1910 Death of Johan Peter Selmer, Norwegian Composer: Johan Peter Selmer, a prominent Norwegian composer and musical figure, died on July 21, 1910, at the age of 66. Selmer was known for his contributions to Norwegian classical music during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, helping to develop and promote the national musical identity of Norway during a period of cultural renaissance.
1911 David Lloyd George's Moroccan Aggression Speech: In a pivotal diplomatic address, David Lloyd George, then serving as the British Chancellor of the Exchequer, delivered a forceful speech articulating the United Kingdom's firm stance against German expansionist ambitions in Morocco. This speech was part of the escalating tensions between European powers during the pre-World War I era, specifically addressing the ongoing Moroccan Crisis. Lloyd George's rhetoric emphasized British resolve to counter German imperial designs and protect the geopolitical balance of power in North Africa.
1912 Birth of Mollie Moon, Civil Rights Activist: Mollie Moon was a prominent African American civil rights activist born on July 21, 1912. She played a significant role in the civil rights movement, working tirelessly to advance racial equality and social justice during a challenging period of American history.
1913 House of Lords Rejects Welsh Disestablishment Bill: The House of Lords decisively rejected the Welsh Disestablishment Bill, voting 242-48 against giving the bill a second reading. This vote reflected the ongoing tensions between religious establishment and emerging secular political movements in early 20th-century Britain.
1914 Buckingham Palace Conference on Irish Political Tensions: A critical diplomatic summit was held at Buckingham Palace in London, bringing together representatives from Irish Nationalist and Irish Unionist factions. The three-day conference aimed to negotiate and potentially resolve the escalating political tensions surrounding Irish Home Rule, which had been a contentious issue in British politics. Participants sought to find a peaceful resolution to the deepening divide between those who supported Irish independence and those who wished to maintain the union with Great Britain.
1915 Third Diplomatic Warning to Germany Regarding Lusitania Incident: On July 21, 1915, the United States government dispatched its third diplomatic note to Germany, strongly warning about the consequences of the Lusitania sinking. This note was part of a series of diplomatic communications expressing American outrage over the submarine attack that killed 128 U.S. citizens on May 7, 1915, and signaling potential escalation of tensions between the two nations.
1917 Sinking of SS Paddington during World War I: On July 21, 1917, during the height of World War I, the British cargo liner SS Paddington was torpedoed and sunk by the German submarine SM U-96 in the Atlantic Ocean. The attack resulted in the tragic loss of 29 crew members' lives, highlighting the brutal maritime warfare tactics employed during the conflict. This incident was part of Germany's unrestricted submarine warfare strategy, which aimed to disrupt Allied maritime trade and supply lines.
1918 German Submarine Attack on Cape Cod: On July 21, 1918, during World War I, the German submarine U-156 conducted a maritime attack off the coast of Massachusetts. The submarine surfaced approximately three miles from Nauset Beach in Orleans and targeted an unarmed tugboat named the Perth Amboy, along with four accompanying barges. The submarine fired torpedoes and shells, successfully sinking the barges and severely damaging the tugboat. Despite the attack, all 32 crew members were rescued by the Coast Guard, with two individuals sustaining injuries and subsequently transported to a Boston hospital for medical treatment.
1919 Wingfoot Air Express Disaster in Chicago: On July 21, 1919, a tragic aviation accident occurred when the dirigible Wingfoot Air Express crashed through the skylight of the Illinois Trust and Savings Building in downtown Chicago. The catastrophic incident resulted in the deaths of 13 people, marking one of the earliest and most devastating airship accidents in United States history. The crash highlighted the significant risks associated with early aviation technology and raised serious questions about the safety of dirigible transportation.
1920 Belfast Pogrom of 1920: On July 21, 1920, a significant sectarian conflict erupted in Belfast, Northern Ireland, marking the beginning of a two-year period of intense violence. During this event, thousands of Catholic workers were systematically expelled from their jobs in shipyards, factories, and linen mills, primarily by Protestant workers and loyalist groups. This pogrom was part of the broader Irish War of Independence and reflected deep-seated sectarian tensions between Catholic and Protestant communities in Northern Ireland.
1921 US Military Aviation Demonstration of Air Power Superiority: US Colonel William Mitchell dramatically demonstrated the potential of aerial warfare by successfully sinking a captured German battleship using aerial bombing. This pivotal moment highlighted the emerging strategic importance of air power in military operations, challenging traditional naval dominance and foreshadowing future military doctrines.
1922 Birth of Kay Starr, Renowned American Singer: Kay Starr was born in Dougherty, Oklahoma, USA. She would become a notable singer known for her versatile musical style, particularly famous for hits like 'Rock and Roll Waltz' and performances at venues such as Club Oasis. Her career spanned multiple genres including pop, jazz, and rock and roll, making her a significant musical figure of mid-20th century American entertainment.
1923 Rudolph Marcus: Canadian Nobel Laureate Chemist: Rudolph A. Marcus, a distinguished Canadian chemist, was recognized for his groundbreaking contributions to the field of chemistry, later earning the prestigious Nobel Prize for his scientific work.
1925 Scopes Trial: Teaching Evolution Challenged in Tennessee: John Thomas Scopes was found guilty of teaching evolution in violation of Tennessee state law, and fined US$100. His legal team strategically recommended a guilty verdict to enable an appeal. In 1927, the Tennessee Supreme Court would ultimately overturn the original verdict, marking a significant moment in the debate over academic freedom and scientific education.
1926 Raymond Poincaré Forms New French Government: In a significant political development, Raymond Poincaré agreed to return from retirement and form a new government in France after the Chamber of Deputies voted to overthrow the Cabinet of recently installed Prime Minister Édouard Herriot. This event highlighted the political instability of the French Third Republic during the interwar period, with frequent changes in government leadership.
1928 First Woman Olympic Gold Medalist in Track and Field: Halina Konopacka of Poland made history by becoming the first woman to win an Olympic gold medal in the discus throw event at the 1928 Summer Olympics in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Her achievement was groundbreaking for women's sports and represented a significant milestone in gender equality in athletic competition.
1929 French Chamber of Deputies Ratifies Mellon–Berenger Agreement: On July 21, 1929, the French Chamber of Deputies narrowly passed the Mellon–Berenger Agreement of 1926, which was a significant diplomatic and financial arrangement between the United States and France. The agreement, named after U.S. Treasury Secretary Andrew Mellon and French Finance Minister Henri Berenger, addressed World War I debt repayments and aimed to stabilize the economic relationship between the two nations. After the narrow ratification in the Chamber of Deputies, the bill was set to proceed to the French Senate for further consideration.
1930 US Senate Ratifies London Naval Treaty: The United States Senate ratified the London Naval Treaty, becoming the first of the five signatory nations to do so. This treaty was a significant diplomatic effort to limit naval armaments and prevent an arms race among major maritime powers in the interwar period.
1931 First Regular Seven-Day Television Broadcasting: CBS's New York City station pioneered the first consistent seven-day-a-week television broadcasting schedule in the United States, marking a significant milestone in media and entertainment technology.
1932 Emergency Relief and Construction Act Signed: President Herbert Hoover signed the Emergency Relief and Construction Act, a significant piece of legislation aimed at providing economic relief and infrastructure support during the depths of the Great Depression. The act authorized federal funding for public works projects and established mechanisms to support struggling local and state governments.
1933 Opening of Haifa Harbor in British Mandate Palestine: On July 21, 1933, the strategically important Haifa Harbor was officially opened, marking a significant milestone in the maritime infrastructure of British Mandate Palestine. This modern port facility would play a crucial role in the region's economic development and trade capabilities, serving as a key connection point between the Mediterranean and the Middle Eastern hinterland.
1934 Death of Marshal Hubert Lyautey: Marshal Hubert Lyautey, a prominent French military leader and colonial administrator known for his significant role in French colonial expansion in North Africa, passed away on July 21, 1934. Lyautey was renowned for his innovative approach to colonial governance and military strategy.
1935 Discovery of Asteroid 1358 Gaika: On July 21, 1935, astronomer C. Jackson made a significant astronomical discovery by identifying and documenting asteroid #1358 Gaika. This discovery contributed to the expanding knowledge of celestial bodies in our solar system during the early 20th century.
1936 Spanish Civil War: Catalonian Anarcho-Syndicalist Committee Formed: The Central Committee of Antifascist Militias of Catalonia was established, marking a pivotal moment in the Spanish Civil War. This committee created an innovative anarcho-syndicalist economic structure in Catalonia, representing a unique political and economic experiment during the conflict.
1937 Éamon de Valera Elected as Irish Free State Prime Minister: Éamon de Valera was elected President of the Executive Council (prime minister) of the Irish Free State by the Dáil (parliament), marking a significant moment in Irish political leadership during the interwar period.
1938 Birth of Les Aspin: Les Aspin, an influential American politician who would later serve as United States Secretary of Defense under President Bill Clinton, is born. He would play a significant role in national defense policy during the early 1990s.
1939 Gandhi's Diplomatic Letter to Hitler Seeking Peace: On July 21, 1939, Mahatma Gandhi, the renowned Indian independence leader and advocate of non-violent resistance, wrote a personal and poignant letter to Adolf Hitler. In this extraordinary diplomatic communication, Gandhi appealed to Hitler's sense of humanity, urging him to prevent the impending global conflict that threatened to plunge the world into unprecedented destruction. The letter was a remarkable attempt to use peaceful dialogue and moral persuasion to avert the catastrophic World War II, reflecting Gandhi's unwavering commitment to non-violence and human understanding, even in the face of rising Nazi aggression.
1940 Baltic States Incorporated into Soviet Union: On July 21, 1940, the Soviet Union formally proclaimed the Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic (SSR), Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic, and Lithuanian Soviet Socialist Republic in Moscow, marking the complete annexation of the Baltic states. This event represented a significant geopolitical transformation, effectively erasing the independent sovereignty of these nations and integrating them into the Soviet political and administrative system.
1941 Establishment of Majdanek Concentration Camp: Heinrich Himmler, a key architect of the Nazi genocide, issued orders for the construction of the Majdanek concentration camp near Lublin, Poland. This camp would become one of the largest Nazi death camps, where tens of thousands of prisoners would be murdered during World War II.
1942 Japanese Invasion of Buna-Gona and Kokoda Track Campaign: The Japanese established a strategic beachhead on the north coast of New Guinea in the Buna-Gona area. A small Australian force initiated a critical rearguard action during the early stages of the Kokoda Track Campaign, marking a significant moment in the Pacific Theater of World War II.
1943 Battle of Roosevelt Ridge: The Battle of Roosevelt Ridge was a significant engagement during World War II, fought between United States and Japanese military forces in the Salamaua region of the Territory of New Guinea. This battle was part of the broader Pacific Theater campaign, where Allied forces sought to push back Japanese territorial gains and ultimately reclaim strategic positions in the Southwest Pacific.
1944 Execution of Stauffenberg and Conspirators: At 0030 hours in Berlin, on orders from General Erich Fromm, a firing squad executes four key members of the July 20 plot: Colonel of the General Staff Mertz von Quirnheim, General Friedrich Olbricht, Colonel Klaus von Stauffenberg, and Lieutenant Werner von Haeften.
1945 Truman Approves Atomic Bomb Use Against Japan: During World War II, President Harry S. Truman authorized the deployment of atomic weapons against Japanese targets, a decision that would dramatically alter the course of the war and global geopolitics. This pivotal moment marked the first and only use of nuclear weapons in armed conflict.
1946 Paris Peace Conference of 1946: Delegates from 21 nations convened in Paris, France, to negotiate and draft peace treaties with Axis-aligned European countries, including Italy, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, and Finland, in the aftermath of World War II.
1947 Indonesia's First Democratic Election: Indonesia held its inaugural democratic election, a pivotal moment in the nation's post-colonial history. This election marked a significant step in establishing democratic processes and self-governance following independence from Dutch colonial rule.
1948 Death of David Wark Griffith, Pioneering Film Director: David Wark Griffith, a seminal American film director widely considered a foundational figure in cinema, passed away. Known for groundbreaking films like 'The Birth of a Nation' and 'Intolerance', Griffith significantly shaped early Hollywood narrative techniques and cinematography.
1949 United States Senate Ratifies NATO Treaty: On July 21, 1949, the United States Senate ratified the North Atlantic Treaty, formally establishing the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). The treaty was approved with a decisive vote of 82 in favor and 13 against, signaling strong bipartisan support for a collective defense alliance during the early years of the Cold War.
1951 Dalai Lama Returns to Tibet: On July 21, 1951, the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, returned to Lhasa, Tibet, following negotiations with the Chinese government. This return occurred during a complex period of political transition, as the People's Republic of China was asserting increasing control over Tibet. The young spiritual and temporal leader was attempting to negotiate autonomy and preserve Tibetan cultural and religious traditions amid growing Chinese communist influence.
1952 Egyptian Revolution of 1952: General Mohammed Naguib leads the Free Officers Movement, a revolutionary group formed by Gamal Abdel Nasser, in a successful military coup that overthrows King Farouk, marking a pivotal moment in Egypt's modern political history. This revolution would fundamentally transform Egypt's governance, leading to the establishment of the Republic of Egypt and setting the stage for Nasser's subsequent presidency.
1953 Canadian Pacific Air Lines Flight 3505 Mysterious Disappearance: On July 21, 1953, Canadian Pacific Air Lines Flight 3505 vanished without a trace over a remote region. The aircraft, carrying 37 passengers and crew, disappeared completely, becoming one of the most perplexing aviation mysteries of the 1950s. Despite extensive search efforts, neither the plane nor any wreckage was ever located, leaving the fate of those on board unknown.
1954 Geneva Conference: Vietnam's Independence and Partition: At the Geneva Conference in Switzerland, France officially agreed to the independence of Vietnam, leading to its partition into North and South Vietnam. This pivotal diplomatic event marked the end of French colonial control in Indochina and set the stage for future geopolitical tensions.
1955 USS Seawolf - First Liquid Metal Cooled Reactor Submarine: The USS Seawolf was launched as the first submarine powered by a liquid metal cooled nuclear reactor, marking a significant technological advancement in naval propulsion systems during the Cold War era.
1956 Devastating Anjar Earthquake in Gujarat, India: A powerful magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck the town of Anjar in the Kutch region of Gujarat, India, causing significant loss of life with 115 reported fatalities. The earthquake highlighted the seismic vulnerability of the region and the devastating potential of geological events.
1957 Arthur Ashe Breaks Racial Barrier in US Tennis: Arthur Ashe became the first African American to win a major US tennis tournament by winning the U.S. National Amateur Tennis Championships, marking a groundbreaking moment in sports history and civil rights.
1959 Boston Red Sox Break Color Barrier: Elijah Jerry 'Pumpsie' Green made history by becoming the first African-American player for the Boston Red Sox, the last Major League Baseball team to integrate. In a game against the Chicago White Sox, Green entered as a pinch runner for Vic Wertz and remained in the game as shortstop during a 2-1 loss, marking a significant moment in the civil rights struggle in professional sports.
1960 World's First Female Prime Minister: Sirimavo Bandaranaike is elected Prime Minister of Sri Lanka (then Ceylon), becoming the world's first female head of government. Her groundbreaking election marked a significant milestone in global political representation and women's leadership.
1961 Mercury-Redstone 4 Mission: Gus Grissom's Suborbital Spaceflight: On July 21, 1961, NASA astronaut Gus Grissom piloted the Mercury-Redstone 4 capsule, nicknamed 'Liberty Bell 7', becoming the second American to complete a suborbital spaceflight. During the 16-minute mission, Grissom reached an altitude of approximately 118 miles before splashing down in the Atlantic Ocean. Unfortunately, the spacecraft was lost during recovery and remained underwater until its dramatic retrieval in 1999.
1962 Civil Rights Demonstration and Mass Arrest in Albany, Georgia: On July 21, 1962, a significant civil rights protest in Albany, Georgia resulted in the arrest of 160 activists. This event was part of the broader Civil Rights Movement, highlighting the intense racial tensions and systematic oppression in the Southern United States during the early 1960s. The mass arrest underscored the challenges faced by African Americans in their struggle for equal rights and social justice.
1963 Election of Pope Paul VI: Giovanni Battista Enrico Antonio Maria Montini was elected Pope Paul VI by the College of Cardinals, marking a significant moment in the leadership of the Roman Catholic Church.
1964 Singapore Racial Riots of 1964: A series of severe racial riots erupted in Singapore between ethnic Chinese and Malays, marking a critical moment in the nation's early post-independence social tensions. The riots resulted in 23 fatalities and 454 injuries over six weeks, highlighting deep-seated ethnic conflicts.
1965 National Security Council Meeting with President Johnson: President Lyndon B. Johnson convened a meeting of the 15-member National Security Council to discuss critical national security matters during the Cold War era, reflecting the strategic decision-making processes of the United States government.
1966 Gemini X returns to Earth.
1967 Operation Buffalo: Devastating Marine Losses in Vietnam: A tragic day for the United States Marines during the Vietnam War, where 400 members of Alpha and Bravo Companies of the 1st Battalion, 9th Marines were ambushed near Con Thien. The North Vietnamese Army inflicted severe casualties: 84 killed, 9 missing, and 190 wounded, totaling 283 casualties.
1968 Jan Janssen Wins Tour de France: Jan Janssen becomes the first Dutch cyclist to win the prestigious Tour de France, marking a significant milestone in Dutch cycling history. His victory represents a breakthrough for the Netherlands in one of the world's most challenging and renowned cycling competitions.
1969 First Human Lunar Landing: On July 21, 1969, at 02:56 UTC, astronaut Neil Armstrong became the first human to set foot on the Moon's surface during the historic Apollo 11 mission. Nineteen minutes later, Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin joined him, marking a monumental achievement in human space exploration. The two astronauts walked on the lunar surface, collecting samples and conducting scientific experiments, symbolizing humanity's extraordinary technological and exploratory capabilities.
1970 Oman Palace Coup: Sultan Said bin Taimur is deposed in a palace coup by his son, Qaboos, marking a significant political transition in Oman.
1972 1972 Munich Summer Olympics Begin: The 1972 Summer Olympics officially opened in Munich, West Germany. This Olympic Games would later become infamous for the tragic terrorist attack on Israeli athletes, marking a dark moment in international sports history.
1973 Lillehammer Affair: Mossad Mistaken Killing: In a controversial incident, Israeli Mossad agents killed a waiter in Norway whom they incorrectly believed was connected to the 1972 Munich Olympics Massacre, highlighting the complex and sometimes tragic consequences of counter-terrorism operations.
1974 Nixon Impeachment Articles Approved: The House Judiciary Committee approves two Articles of Impeachment against President Richard Nixon, marking a critical moment in the Watergate scandal and presidential accountability.
1975 Apollo-Soyuz Spacecraft Undock: The historic Apollo-Soyuz mission concluded its joint activities as the American and Soviet spacecraft undocked at 11:26 a.m. EDT. This mission represented a pivotal moment of cooperation during the Cold War, symbolizing détente between the United States and Soviet Union in space exploration.
1976 Viking I Lands on Mars: NASA's Viking I spacecraft successfully lands on Mars, marking a historic milestone in space exploration. This mission represented the first time a spacecraft had landed safely on the Martian surface, paving the way for future planetary exploration and scientific research.
1977 Libyan-Egyptian War Erupts: The Libyan-Egyptian War began on July 21, 1977, marking a significant conflict between two North African nations. Libya initiated the conflict by launching strikes against Egyptian cities, escalating tensions in the region. The brief but intense war lasted approximately two days, concluding with a ceasefire on July 24, 1977.
1978 Bolivian Military Coup of 1978: A military coup in Bolivia led by General Juan Pereda, resulting in the forced departure of President Hugo Banzer from power. This political upheaval represented another instance of political instability in Bolivia's turbulent military-dominated era.
1979 US-China Diplomatic Normalization: The United States and China signed the Sino-American Joint Statement, a pivotal diplomatic agreement that significantly advanced the normalization of relations between the two countries, marking a crucial moment in Cold War-era international diplomacy.
1980 US Senate Ratifies North Atlantic Treaty: The United States Senate officially ratified the North Atlantic Treaty, a pivotal moment in Cold War-era international relations that solidified the NATO alliance and the United States' commitment to collective defense in Europe.
1981 Historic Cricket Match at Headingley: In a remarkable cricket match at Headingley, England dramatically defeated Australia. Australia set a target of 130 runs to win, but were dramatically bowled out for just 111 runs. Bob Willis was the standout performer, taking an extraordinary 8 wickets for 43 runs.
1982 HMS Hermes Returns from Falklands War: The Royal Navy flagship HMS Hermes returned to Portsmouth, receiving a triumphant hero's welcome after its crucial role in the Falklands War, symbolizing the United Kingdom's military success in the South Atlantic conflict.
1983 End of Martial Law in Poland: The Polish government officially terminated 19 months of martial law, marking a significant political transition. This event represented a crucial moment in Poland's struggle against communist control and was an important step towards democratic reforms during the Cold War era.
1984 First Documented Robot-Related Fatality in the US: In a tragic industrial accident at a factory in Jackson, Michigan, a robot crushes a worker against a safety bar, marking the first recorded robot-related human fatality in the United States and raising significant questions about workplace safety and emerging robotic technologies.
1985 Christa McAuliffe Selected for Space Shuttle Mission: Christa McAuliffe is chosen from 11,000 applicants to become the first school teacher to fly aboard the space shuttle, symbolizing NASA's Teacher in Space Project and inspiring educators nationwide.
1986 California-Nevada Border Earthquake: A significant magnitude 6.2 earthquake struck the California-Nevada border region, causing potential geological disruption and local impact.
1987 Kristi Addis Crowned Miss Teen USA: Kristi Addis, representing the state of Mississippi, was crowned as the 5th Miss Teen USA in a national pageant on July 21, 1987. The competition, which highlights the achievements and talents of teenage women across the United States, recognized Addis for her poise, intelligence, and representation of youth leadership.
1988 Michael Dukakis Accepts Democratic Presidential Nomination: Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis formally accepted the Democratic Party's nomination for President of the United States at the 1988 Democratic National Convention, positioning himself as a candidate in the presidential election against Republican nominee George H.W. Bush.
1989 Mike Tyson Knockout Victory: Mike Tyson dramatically defeated Carl 'the Truth' Williams via technical knockout (TKO) in just 1 minute and 33 seconds of the first round, further solidifying his reputation as a formidable heavyweight boxer.
1990 Pink Floyd's Historic Berlin Wall Performance: Rock band Pink Floyd performed their iconic album 'The Wall' at the site of the former Berlin Wall, symbolizing the fall of the Cold War division and celebrating the reunification of Germany. This powerful musical event marked a significant cultural moment in post-Cold War Europe.
1991 Jeffrey Dahmer Arrested for Multiple Murders: Serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer was apprehended after police discovered the remains of 11 men and boys in his Milwaukee, Wisconsin apartment. Further investigation revealed his involvement in at least 6 additional murders, marking a horrific chapter in criminal history.
1992 Transnistria War Ceasefire: The Transnistria War, a conflict between Moldova and the breakaway region of Transnistria, concluded with a significant ceasefire agreement on July 21, 1992. This conflict emerged in the context of the Soviet Union's dissolution, with Transnistria seeking independence from Moldova. The ceasefire, mediated by Russian forces, effectively froze the territorial dispute, leaving Transnistria in a state of de facto independence, though internationally unrecognized.
1993 Kolkata Police Firing Incident: On July 21, 1993, a significant political confrontation occurred in Kolkata when police opened fire on protesters near the Writers' Building, resulting in the death of 13 Congress workers. Led by Mamata Banerjee, the protest was centered on demanding mandatory photo voter ID cards. This tragic event became a pivotal moment in Banerjee's political trajectory, dramatically increasing her public sympathy and political support.
1994 Tony Blair Wins Labour Party Leadership: Tony Blair was declared the winner of the British Labour Party leadership election, a pivotal moment that set the stage for his eventual rise to Prime Minister in 1997. This victory marked a significant turning point for the Labour Party, signaling a shift towards a more centrist, modernized political approach known as 'New Labour'.
1995 Third Taiwan Strait Crisis: From July 21 to July 26, 1995, the People's Liberation Army of the People's Republic of China escalated tensions by firing missiles into the waters north of Taiwan, marking a significant moment in cross-strait relations and geopolitical dynamics.
1996 Saguenay River Flood: On July 21, 1996, severe storms triggered catastrophic flooding along the Saguenay River in Quebec, Canada. This natural disaster became one of the most expensive environmental events in Canadian history, causing extensive damage to infrastructure, homes, and local communities. The unprecedented rainfall led to massive river overflow, resulting in significant economic and environmental consequences.
1997 USS Constitution Sails Again on 200th Birthday: The historic USS Constitution, affectionately known as 'Old Ironsides', was fully restored and celebrated its bicentennial by setting sail for the first time in 116 years. This momentous occasion marked a significant milestone in naval preservation and American maritime heritage, demonstrating the ship's remarkable durability and historical importance.
1998 U.S. House Approves Arts Funding: The U.S. House of Representatives voted 253–173 to approve $98 million in funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), effectively reversing a previous legislative decision to reduce arts funding. This vote represented a significant moment of support for cultural and artistic programs at the national level.
1999 Fatal Diving Accident in Deer Island Outfall Tunnel: Two professional divers tragically lost their lives during a critical infrastructure maintenance project in the Deer Island Outfall Tunnel. The incident occurred while they were attempting to remove safety plugs inside risers that lead to the bottom of Massachusetts Bay, highlighting the inherent risks in underwater construction and maintenance work.
2000 G-8 Nations Annual Summit in Okinawa, Japan: From July 21 to July 23, 2000, the G-8 Nations convened their 26th Annual Summit in Okinawa, Japan. The summit focused on critical global challenges, including addressing the AIDS epidemic, bridging the 'digital divide' between developed and developing nations, and establishing an ambitious goal to halve world poverty by 2015. World leaders discussed strategies for international cooperation, technological access, and sustainable development.
2001 Akashi Pedestrian Bridge Tragedy: During a fireworks display at Okura Beach in Akashi, Hyōgo, Japan, a catastrophic incident occurred when a pedestrian footbridge connecting the beach to JR Asagiri Station became critically overcrowded. The overwhelming crowd led to a devastating domino effect, resulting in 11 fatalities and over 120 injuries as people were thrown from the bridge in a chaotic and tragic sequence of events.
2002 WorldCom Bankruptcy Filing: Telecommunications giant WorldCom files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, marking the largest corporate bankruptcy in United States history at the time. This event signaled significant financial turmoil and accounting irregularities in the telecommunications sector.
2003 Wikipedia Emergence: The wiki phenomenon and Wikipedia.org gained significant attention, marking a transformative moment in collaborative online knowledge sharing.
2004 American Hostage Paul Johnson Murdered: Saudi security officials discovered the decapitated head of American hostage Paul Johnson in a refrigerator at a villa in Riyadh, confirming his brutal murder by militants, which shocked the international community and highlighted ongoing terrorist threats.
2005 London Attempted Terrorist Attacks: A coordinated terrorist attack targeted London's public transportation system, occurring exactly two weeks after the July 7 bombings. Four attempted bomb attacks were made on three underground trains and a London bus. Fortunately, the bombs failed to detonate properly, resulting in minimal disruption and only one unrelated injury.
2006 Israel Continues Military Offensive in Lebanon: Israel escalated its military campaign in Lebanon, with warplanes bombing over 40 targets, predominantly in southern Beirut, during the ongoing 2006 Israel-Lebanon conflict.
2007 Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Published: The final book in the Harry Potter series, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" by J.K. Rowling, is released worldwide. It becomes the fastest-selling book in history, selling more than 11 million copies within 24 hours and marking the conclusion of a global literary phenomenon.
2008 Zimbabwe Hyperinflation Crisis: Zimbabwe introduces a staggering 100-billion dollar bank note as the country's annual inflation rate reaches an unprecedented 2.2 million percent, symbolizing the severe economic collapse under Robert Mugabe's regime.
2009 Jupiter Impact Event Observed by NASA: NASA scientists confirmed a significant impact event on Jupiter, marking the first such observation since the historic Shoemaker-Levy 9 collision in July 1994. This astronomical event provided rare insights into planetary dynamics and impact phenomena in our solar system.
2010 Deadly China Floods: Catastrophic floods in China result in 700 fatalities, marking the deadliest natural disaster in the country in a decade, causing widespread destruction and humanitarian crisis.
2011 NASA Space Shuttle Program Concludes: NASA's Space Shuttle program officially ends with the landing of Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-135 at Kennedy Space Center, marking the conclusion of a 30-year era of space exploration.
2012 Syrian Civil War Escalation: The Syrian uprising, which began in 2011, continued with intense conflict, marking a critical period of civil war and humanitarian crisis in the Middle East.
2013 Mass Prison Break in Iraq: Hundreds of al-Qaeda prisoners escaped from two Iraqi prisons during coordinated armed raids, representing a significant security breach and potential threat to regional stability.
2014 MH17 Investigation Begins Amid Renewed Fighting: International investigators arrived to investigate the Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 crash site, while fighting rekindled near Donetsk, Ukraine, creating challenging conditions for the investigation.
2015 Sandra Bland Death Investigation Launched: Authorities in Waller County, Texas, announced an investigation into the death of Sandra Bland, an activist who died while in police custody, amid growing concerns about police conduct and racial justice.
2016 Trump Accepts Republican Nomination: Donald Trump formally accepted the Republican Party's nomination for the 2016 U.S. Presidential Election, a pivotal moment in a highly polarizing and unconventional campaign that would ultimately lead to his election as President.
2017 Palestinian Protests Against Israeli Security Measures: Thousands of Palestinians protested Israel's installation of metal detectors and a ban on Muslim men under 50 at the Noble Sanctuary/Temple Mount following the murder of two Israeli policemen. Protests spread across multiple countries including Indonesia, Jordan, Lebanon, Malaysia, and Turkey.
2018 White Helmets Rescue Operation in Syria: Israel Defense Forces, at the request of Canada and the United States, evacuate 98 White Helmets rescue workers from southwestern Syria into Jordan, with some offered refuge by the UK, Germany, and Canada.
2019 Yuen Long Attack in Hong Kong: On July 21, 2019, a violent incident occurred in Yuen Long, Hong Kong, where triad members indiscriminately attacked civilians returning from protests. The police were accused of failing to intervene and protect the citizens, raising serious concerns about law enforcement's neutrality during the ongoing pro-democracy protests.
2020 European Union Approves Massive COVID-19 Economic Recovery Package: The European Union reached a landmark agreement on a €750 billion economic stimulus package designed to help member states recover from the economic devastation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This unprecedented financial intervention represented a significant collective effort to stabilize and revitalize the European economy during a global crisis.
2021 Taliban Offensive Escalates in Afghanistan: In July 2021, the Taliban launched a major military offensive across Afghanistan, rapidly gaining control of approximately 50% of the country's districts. This aggressive campaign coincided with the imminent withdrawal of foreign military forces, particularly U.S. and NATO troops, creating a critical turning point in Afghanistan's long-standing conflict. The Taliban's strategic advances signaled an impending shift in the country's political and territorial control, setting the stage for a significant geopolitical transformation.
2022 UK Records Unprecedented Extreme Heat: The United Kingdom experienced an extraordinary meteorological event on July 21, 2022, when temperatures soared to an unprecedented 40.3°C (104.5°F) in Coningsby, marking the first time in recorded history that the country has surpassed the 40°C threshold. This record-breaking temperature was part of a broader extreme heatwave affecting multiple European countries, highlighting the escalating impacts of climate change and global warming.
2023 Barbenheimer: A Unique Cinema Experience: On July 21, 2023, a remarkable cinematic event occurred when two starkly different films, Greta Gerwig's 'Barbie' and Christopher Nolan's 'Oppenheimer', were simultaneously released in theaters. Contrary to expectations of competition, audiences embraced both films, creating an unprecedented cultural phenomenon dubbed 'Barbenheimer'. Moviegoers enthusiastically attended screenings of both films, praising their distinct artistic merits and creating a unique shared viewing experience.

What Is special about July 21?

July 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 July 21.