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

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Events on May 21 - Key Moments Throughout History

  • 1900 Scofield Coal Mine Disaster: A catastrophic explosion at the Pleasant Valley Coal Company near Scofield, Utah, resulted in the deaths of 246 coal miners due to carbon monoxide poisoning. The tragic incident occurred at 10:28 pm, highlighting the dangerous working conditions in early 20th-century mining operations.
  • 1901 Uneventful Day in Global History: While no specific major historical events were recorded on May 21, 1901, this day represents a typical moment during the early 20th century. The world was in a period of significant transition, with industrialization, colonial expansions, and technological innovations rapidly changing global dynamics. Though no singular event stands out, the day was part of the broader historical tapestry of the Progressive Era.
  • 1902 Birth of Modernist Architect Marcel Breuer: Marcel Breuer, a pioneering Hungarian architect and furniture designer, was born in Pécs. He would become a significant figure in the Bauhaus movement and modernist design, known for his innovative architectural and furniture concepts.
  • 1903 Birth of Manly Wade Wellman, Science Fiction Author: Manly Wade Wellman was born on May 21, 1903, in Angola. He became a notable science fiction and fantasy writer, known for his works such as 'After Dark' and 'Devil's Planet'. Wellman was an influential author in the pulp fiction and speculative fiction genres, contributing significantly to the development of American genre literature in the mid-20th century.
  • 1904 FIFA Founded in Paris: The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) was officially established in Paris, France, marking a pivotal moment in international soccer governance. This organization would go on to become the global governing body for association football, standardizing rules and organizing major international tournaments.
  • 1905 Premiere of Man and Superman by George Bernard Shaw: On May 21, 1905, George Bernard Shaw's groundbreaking play 'Man and Superman' premiered at the Royal Court Theatre in London, produced by the Stage Society. This philosophical comedy explored complex themes of social evolution, romantic relationships, and human potential, showcasing Shaw's distinctive wit and intellectual depth. The play is notable for its lengthy third act, 'Don Juan in Hell', which is often performed as a standalone piece and represents a dramatic exploration of philosophical ideas about society, marriage, and human nature.
  • 1906 Automotive Innovation: Demountable Tire Rim Patent: Louis H. Perlman made a significant contribution to automotive technology by patenting a demountable tire carrying rim for cars. This innovation likely improved tire changing and maintenance processes for early 20th-century automobiles.
  • 1907 32nd Preakness Stakes Horse Race: G Mountain rode Don Enrique to victory in the 32nd Preakness Stakes, completing the race with a time of 1:45.4.
  • 1908 First Horror Film Premieres in Chicago: The groundbreaking silent film adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's novella 'Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde' premiered in Chicago, marking a significant milestone in early cinema and horror genre history. This film adaptation, starring notable actors of the era, introduced audiences to the psychological thriller concept and explored themes of duality in human nature.
  • 1909 St. Cloud, Florida: A Unique Veterans' Community Established: On May 21, 1909, St. Cloud, Florida, a pioneering planned community specifically designed for retired Union veterans of the American Civil War, welcomed its first resident, Albert Hantsch from Chicago. This innovative settlement represented a unique social experiment in post-Civil War America, providing a dedicated living space for veterans seeking a peaceful retirement environment.
  • 1910 Founding of Tel Aviv: On May 21, 1910, the settlement of Ahuzzat Bayit, originally established on April 11, 1909, by Jewish settlers in Ottoman Palestine, was officially renamed Tel Aviv. The name 'Tel Aviv', meaning 'the hill of the spring' in Hebrew, symbolizes renewal and hope. This marked a significant moment in the early Zionist movement, representing the first modern Jewish city in Palestine and laying the groundwork for what would become Israel's largest metropolitan area.
  • 1911 Treaty of Ciudad Juárez Ends Initial Phase of Mexican Revolution: Mexican President Porfirio Díaz and revolutionary leader Francisco Madero signed the Treaty of Ciudad Juárez, effectively concluding the initial phase of the Mexican Revolution. The historic agreement was negotiated to halt the ongoing armed conflict between their respective forces, marking a significant turning point in Mexico's political landscape.
  • 1912 Birth of Monty Stratton, Notable Baseball Player: Montgomery 'Monty' Stratton was born on May 21, 1912, in Texas. He would become a prominent Major League Baseball pitcher for the Chicago White Sox during the 1930s. Stratton was known for his exceptional pitching skills and is remembered as a significant figure in baseball history, particularly for his remarkable comeback after losing his leg in a hunting accident in 1938.
  • 1913 Amelia Earhart's Transatlantic Flight Attempt: There is a historical inaccuracy in this record. Amelia Earhart did not complete a solo nonstop transatlantic flight in 1913, as she was only 16 years old at that time. Her actual first transatlantic flight was in 1928 as a passenger, and her solo transatlantic flight occurred on May 20-21, 1932, flying from Harbour Grace, Newfoundland to Culmore, Northern Ireland. This pioneering journey made her the first woman to fly solo nonstop across the Atlantic Ocean.
  • 1914 Greyhound Bus Company Founding: On May 21, 1914, the Greyhound Bus Company was established in Minnesota, marking the beginning of what would become one of the most iconic intercity bus transportation services in the United States. This founding would eventually transform long-distance ground transportation across America.
  • 1915 Second Battle of Artois: French Resistance Under German Assault: During the Second Battle of Artois in World War I, French forces demonstrated remarkable resilience while consolidating their defensive positions under intense German artillery bombardment. Despite facing overwhelming enemy fire, French troops attempted to maintain strategic ground, though ultimately losing several key defensive positions. This battle was part of the larger Western Front conflict, highlighting the brutal and attritional nature of World War I combat.
  • 1916 Britain Introduces Daylight Saving Time: On May 21, 1916, the United Kingdom officially implemented Daylight Saving Time (DST) for the first time, a strategic move to conserve energy and make better use of daylight hours during World War I. Citizens were instructed to advance their clocks by one hour, creating longer evening daylight and potentially reducing coal consumption.
  • 1917 First American Drafted in World War I: Leo Pinckney became the first American to be drafted into military service during World War I on May 21, 1917, symbolizing the United States' formal entry into the global conflict.
  • 1918 Women's Suffrage Amendment Passes House of Representatives: The United States House of Representatives passed a critical amendment granting women the right to vote, marking a significant milestone in the long-fought women's suffrage movement. This legislative action was a crucial step towards the eventual ratification of the 19th Amendment, which would formally guarantee women's voting rights nationwide.
  • 1919 Nineteenth Amendment Passes House of Representatives: The Nineteenth Amendment, which granted women the right to vote, passed the House of Representatives with a significant vote of 304–89. This landmark legislation was a crucial milestone in the women's suffrage movement, paving the way for women's constitutional right to vote in the United States.
  • 1920 Assassination of Mexican President Venustiano Carranza: On May 21, 1920, recently deposed Mexican President Venustiano Carranza was killed in a strategic ambush orchestrated by General Rodolfo Herrero's military forces. This event marked a significant turning point in the Mexican Revolution, highlighting the volatile political landscape and the brutal power struggles that characterized the era. Carranza, who had been a prominent revolutionary leader and president, was eliminated shortly after being removed from power, demonstrating the precarious nature of political leadership during this tumultuous period in Mexican history.
  • 1921 Birth of Andrei Sakharov, Renowned Soviet Physicist and Human Rights Activist: Andrei Sakharov was a prominent Soviet physicist, human rights activist, and Nobel Peace Prize laureate who played a crucial role in the development of the Soviet hydrogen bomb and later became a leading dissident and advocate for human rights and peaceful political change during the Cold War.
  • 1922 Eugene O'Neill Wins Pulitzer Prize: Playwright Eugene O'Neill is awarded the Pulitzer Prize for his groundbreaking play 'Anna Christie', highlighting his significant contribution to American theater.
  • 1924 Infamous Thrill Killing of Bobby Franks: University of Chicago students Nathan Leopold and Richard Loeb committed a shocking and senseless murder of 14-year-old Bobby Franks in what became known as a 'thrill killing'. The two affluent young men meticulously planned and executed the murder purely for the intellectual challenge and excitement, demonstrating a chilling disregard for human life. Their crime would become one of the most notorious murder cases of the 1920s, drawing significant national attention and sparking debates about criminal psychology and motivation.
  • 1925 First Woman Governor in U.S. History: Nellie Tayloe Ross makes history by becoming the governor of Wyoming, succeeding her late husband and breaking significant gender barriers in American political leadership.
  • 1926 Earl Sheely's Record-Breaking Doubles Performance: On May 21, 1926, Chicago White Sox first baseman Earl Sheely made baseball history by hitting an extraordinary 6 consecutive doubles in a single game, a remarkable feat of batting consistency and skill that showcased his exceptional hitting prowess during the era.
  • 1927 First Solo Non-Stop Transatlantic Flight by Charles Lindbergh: Charles Lindbergh completed the first solo non-stop transatlantic flight from New York to Paris in the Spirit of St. Louis, a groundbreaking achievement in aviation history. Flying across the Atlantic Ocean alone, Lindbergh covered approximately 3,600 miles in challenging conditions, demonstrating remarkable skill and endurance. His journey took 33.5 hours, landing at Le Bourget Field near Paris on May 21, 1927, and instantly becoming a global celebrity.
  • 1928 Deadly Phosgene Chemical Leak in Hamburg Industrial Accident: On May 21, 1928, a catastrophic chemical leak occurred at an industrial facility in Hamburg, Germany, resulting in the tragic deaths of 11 workers. Phosgene, a highly toxic gas used in chemical manufacturing and as a chemical warfare agent during World War I, escaped from its containment, causing immediate and fatal respiratory damage to those in the vicinity. The incident highlighted the significant industrial safety risks associated with handling dangerous chemical substances during the early 20th century.
  • 1929 First Automatic Stock Quotation Board in NYC: An innovative automatic electric stock quotation board was installed in New York City, marking a significant technological advancement in financial information dissemination during the late 1920s.
  • 1930 Sarojini Naidu's Arrest at Dharasana: On May 21, 1930, prominent Indian independence leader Sarojini Naidu was arrested at Dharasana while leading a group of volunteers in a peaceful protest at the salt works, as part of Mahatma Gandhi's broader civil disobedience movement against British colonial rule.
  • 1931 Belgian Government Collapse: The government led by Prime Minister Henri Jaspar fell, marking a significant political transition in Belgium during the early 1930s.
  • 1932 Amelia Earhart's Historic Transatlantic Solo Flight: On May 21, 1932, pioneering aviator Amelia Earhart made history by becoming the first woman to successfully complete a solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean. Despite challenging weather conditions, she skillfully navigated her aircraft and landed in a pasture near Derry, Northern Ireland, after a grueling 14-hour and 56-minute journey from Harbour Grace, Newfoundland. Her remarkable achievement covered approximately 2,026 miles and solidified her status as a groundbreaking female pilot, inspiring generations of women in aviation.
  • 1933 Mt Davidson Cross lit by FDR via telegraph
  • 1934 Oskaloosa's Pioneering Fingerprinting Initiative: Oskaloosa, Iowa, made history by becoming the first municipality in the United States to implement a comprehensive citizen fingerprinting program. This groundbreaking law enforcement and identification strategy represented an innovative approach to public safety and record-keeping in the early 20th century.
  • 1935 Nazi Germany Introduces Conscription Law: Germany enacted a new conscription law mandating one-year military service for all males aged 18-45, a direct violation of the 1919 Treaty of Versailles. This legislation was a critical component of Hitler's systematic re-armament strategy, signaling Germany's increasing military preparedness and defiance of post-World War I international restrictions.
  • 1936 Chile's Potential League of Nations Withdrawal: During his annual congressional address, Chilean President Arturo Alessandri expressed potential plans to withdraw from the League of Nations, criticizing the organization's structure and hinting at possible alternative diplomatic measures.
  • 1937 Debre Libanos Massacre: During the Italian colonial occupation of Ethiopia, a detachment of Italian troops commits a brutal reprisal against the Debre Libanos monastery community in response to an attempted assassination of Italian viceroy Rodolfo Graziani. The massacre results in the systematic killing of 297 monks and 23 laymen, representing a horrific war crime and act of colonial violence.
  • 1938 Czechoslovakia Prepares for Potential German Invasion: In a tense period leading up to World War II, Czechoslovakia mobilized its military forces and fortified its border with Germany. This action reflected the growing geopolitical tensions and the imminent threat of Nazi Germany's expansionist policies.
  • 1939 Pact of Steel Signed: Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy formalized their military and political alliance by signing the Pact of Steel, a strategic agreement that would significantly impact the geopolitical landscape leading into World War II.
  • 1940 Battle of Arras: British and French Allied forces conduct a significant counter-attack south of Arras, France, strategically buying time to reinforce and fortify the Channel Ports against the German invasion.
  • 1941 SS Robin Moor Sunk by German U-boat: During World War II, the freighter SS Robin Moor was sunk by a German U-boat approximately 950 miles off the coast of Brazil. This incident marked the first United States merchant ship deliberately destroyed by a German submarine during the conflict, signaling an escalation of naval warfare in the Atlantic.
  • 1942 Mexico Declares War on Nazi Germany: In a significant moment of World War II, Mexico officially declared war against Nazi Germany following the deliberate sinking of the Mexican oil tanker 'Faja de Oro' by German submarine U-160 near Key West. This act of aggression prompted Mexico to join the Allied powers, demonstrating the global reach of the conflict.
  • 1943 Bulgaria's Tragic Surrender of Jewish Residents to Nazi Germany: On May 21, 1943, the Bulgarian government, under intense pressure from its Axis partner Nazi Germany, agreed to surrender approximately 25,000 Jewish residents from Sofia, a devastating decision that would contribute to the Holocaust's tragic human toll during World War II.
  • 1944 West Loch Disaster at Pearl Harbor: On May 21, 1944, a catastrophic incident occurred at the U.S. Naval Base in Pearl Harbor when a mortar round accidentally detonated aboard LST-353, triggering a devastating fire that rapidly spread among ships being prepared for Operation Forager, the planned invasion of the Mariana Islands. The disaster resulted in the sinking of six Landing Ship, Tank (LST) vessels and tragically claimed the lives of 163 naval personnel, significantly impacting the U.S. Navy's operational readiness in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
  • 1945 Heinrich Himmler Captured by Allied Forces: Nazi war criminal Heinrich Himmler, one of the most notorious architects of the Holocaust, was captured by Allied forces, marking a significant moment in post-World War II justice.
  • 1946 Fatal Criticality Incident: Louis Slotin and the Demon Core: On May 21, 1946, physicist Louis Slotin was fatally irradiated during a dangerous experimental procedure with the infamous 'Demon Core' at Los Alamos National Laboratory. During a critical nuclear assembly experiment, Slotin accidentally triggered a sudden burst of radiation while manually manipulating plutonium core components. His quick reflexes and heroic actions prevented a potential catastrophic chain reaction, saving his colleagues' lives at the cost of his own. Slotin received a massive radiation dose estimated at nearly 1,000 rads, which would prove fatal. He died on May 30, 1946, from acute radiation syndrome, becoming a tragic symbol of the risks faced by scientists during the early atomic research era.
  • 1948 Battles of the Kinarot Valley during Israeli War of Independence: During the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, the Battles of the Kinarot Valley concluded in a tactical stalemate but were strategically interpreted as an Israeli victory. These battles were part of the broader conflict surrounding Israel's establishment and demonstrated the complex military dynamics of the time.
  • 1949 East German Railway Workers Strike of 1949: On May 21, 1949, a significant labor protest erupted in Berlin when approximately 16,000 non-Communist railway workers went on strike, demanding payment in western Deutsche Marks. The strike escalated into violent confrontations, with Soviet sector police and strike-breakers engaging in fierce clashes that resulted in around 500 reported injuries. This event highlighted the growing tensions between workers and communist authorities in post-World War II East Germany, symbolizing the broader ideological and economic struggles of the Cold War era.
  • 1950 First Aerial Hydrogen Bomb Test at Bikini Atoll: The United States conducted the first aerial hydrogen bomb test over Namu islet in the Bikini Atoll, Pacific Ocean. The thermonuclear device had an explosive yield equivalent to 10 million tons of TNT, marking a significant milestone in nuclear weapons technology during the Cold War era.
  • 1951 The Ninth Street Show: New York School's Artistic Emergence: The Ninth Street Art Exhibition was a pivotal moment in post-World War II American art history, marking the public debut of the New York School. This groundbreaking exhibition showcased works by prominent abstract expressionist artists, including Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning. The event represented a radical departure from traditional artistic conventions, highlighting the innovative and revolutionary spirit of the emerging avant-garde movement in American visual arts.
  • 1952 Death of John Garfield: Celebrated Hollywood actor John Garfield passed away at the young age of 39, marking the end of a significant career in American cinema. Known for his intense performances and roles in film noir, Garfield was a prominent figure in mid-20th century Hollywood.
  • 1953 Deadly Cross-Border Tornado Strikes Michigan and Ontario: A devastating tornado swept through Port Huron, Michigan, and nearby Canadian regions of Sarnia and London Township on May 21, 1953, resulting in seven fatalities. The cross-border natural disaster caused significant property damage and highlighted the unpredictable and destructive potential of severe weather events in the Great Lakes region.
  • 1954 Proposed 18-Year-Old Voting Rights Amendment Rejected: In a significant political moment, the United States Congress defeated a proposed constitutional amendment that would have lowered the voting age from 21 to 18 years old. This rejection came during a period of growing youth political activism and debates about civic participation. At the time, young adults could be drafted into military service but were not allowed to vote, creating a notable tension in democratic representation.
  • 1955 Historic Transcontinental Solo Flight: A groundbreaking aviation achievement was completed with the first transcontinental round-trip solo flight from sunrise to sunset, demonstrating significant advancements in aviation technology and pilot capabilities.
  • 1956 Nuclear Testing at Bikini Atoll: The United States conducted a historic and devastating hydrogen bomb test in the Pacific Ocean, obliterating the Bikini Atoll through an airborne nuclear explosion. This test was part of the Cold War-era nuclear arms race and demonstrated the immense destructive power of thermonuclear weapons.
  • 1957 French Government of Mollet Resigns: The government led by Prime Minister Guy Mollet of France collapsed, marking a significant political transition in the Fourth Republic era. This resignation reflected the ongoing political instability characteristic of French politics during the late 1950s.
  • 1958 US Nuclear Testing at Bikini Atoll: The United States conducted an atmospheric nuclear test at Bikini Island, part of the ongoing nuclear weapons testing program during the Cold War era.
  • 1959 Gypsy Musical Broadway Premiere: The legendary musical 'Gypsy' opened at the Broadway Theater in New York City, marking a significant moment in American theatrical history. The production would go on to run for an impressive 702 performances, becoming a landmark in musical theater.
  • 1960 Leontyne Price Makes History at Teatro alla Scala: Leontyne Price, a groundbreaking African American soprano, became the first Black artist to sing a lead role at the prestigious Teatro alla Scala in Milan, Italy. She performed the title role in Verdi's 'Aida', marking a significant milestone in classical music and racial representation in the performing arts.
  • 1961 Montgomery Church Siege During Freedom Riders Protest: A pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement where over 1,000 Black residents and civil rights leaders, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., were surrounded by a violent white mob at First Baptist Church. The event underscored the intense racial violence faced by civil rights activists, with the Freedom Riders testing interstate travel desegregation. U.S. Marshals were called in to quell the riot, resulting in 17 white rioters being arrested and significant property damage.
  • 1962 Nasser Unveils Arab Socialist Union National Charter: Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser publicly presented the 'National Charter of the Arab Socialist Union' on May 21, 1962, outlining a vision of pan-Arab socialism and unity. This significant political declaration aimed to create a unified ideological and political movement across Arab nations during the era of decolonization and emerging national identities.
  • 1963 Birth of Richard Appel, Television Writer and Producer: Richard Appel was born on May 21, 1963, and would later become a notable writer and producer for the iconic animated television series 'The Simpsons'. His contributions to the show helped shape one of the most influential and long-running animated comedies in television history.
  • 1964 First Nuclear-Powered Lighthouse Operational: The first nuclear-powered lighthouse began operations in Chesapeake Bay, marking a significant technological milestone in maritime navigation and energy innovation.
  • 1965 Berkeley Teach-In: The largest teach-in in history commenced at the University of California, Berkeley, drawing an impressive crowd of 30,000 participants. This event represented a significant moment of public discourse and intellectual engagement during the mid-1960s.
  • 1966 Ulster Volunteer Force Declares War on IRA: The Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF), a loyalist paramilitary organization in Northern Ireland, officially declared war on the Irish Republican Army (IRA), escalating tensions in the ongoing conflict known as 'The Troubles'. This declaration marked a significant moment in the sectarian violence that would plague Northern Ireland for decades.
  • 1967 Olympic Athlete Milestone: Rogel Nachum, an Israeli athlete, was noted in connection with the men's triple jump event at the 1996 Olympic Games.
  • 1968 USS Scorpion Submarine Tragedy: The nuclear-powered submarine USS Scorpion, carrying 99 crew members, is reported missing and later discovered at the bottom of the ocean near the Azores, marking a significant maritime disaster during the Cold War era.
  • 1969 Sirhan Sirhan Sentenced for RFK Murder: Sirhan Sirhan was sentenced to death for the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy, a sentence that was later commuted to life imprisonment.
  • 1970 Ohio State University Unrest: The US National Guard was mobilized to address and suppress student disturbances at Ohio State University, reflecting the ongoing social and political tensions of the early 1970s, particularly surrounding the Vietnam War era.
  • 1971 Marvin Gaye's 'What's Going On' Album Release: Marvin Gaye releases his groundbreaking eleventh studio album 'What's Going On', a seminal work in soul and protest music. The album has been consistently ranked as one of the greatest albums of all time by multiple prestigious music publications, including Rolling Stone, The Guardian, and New Music Express.
  • 1972 Birth of The Notorious B.I.G.: Christopher Wallace, known professionally as The Notorious B.I.G. (Biggie Smalls), was born in Brooklyn, New York. He would become one of the most influential rappers in hip-hop history, known for his distinctive flow and storytelling abilities.
  • 1974 Political Prisoner Release in Mozambique: Following the political changes in Portugal, colonial administrators in Mozambique released 554 political prisoners from Machava Prison. This significant action, supervised by Colonel Antonio Maria Rebelo, marked an important moment in the decolonization process and human rights progression in Mozambique.
  • 1975 Baader-Meinhof Group Trial Begins: The trial of the infamous Baader-Meinhof Group (Red Army Faction) commenced in Stuttgart, Germany. This high-profile legal proceeding involved members of a left-wing terrorist organization that had conducted numerous violent attacks in West Germany during the 1970s.
  • 1976 Yuba City Bus Disaster: On May 21, 1976, a tragic bus accident occurred in Martinez, California, resulting in the deaths of 29 people. The incident was a devastating transportation catastrophe that shocked the local community and highlighted the critical importance of vehicle safety standards and emergency response protocols.
  • 1977 Seattle Slew Wins 103rd Preakness Stakes: Jockey Jean Cruguet rides the undefeated racehorse Seattle Slew to victory in the 103rd Preakness Stakes, completing the race in an impressive time of 1:54.4.
  • 1978 Inaugural Passenger Flight to New Destination: A milestone in aviation history: the first passenger plane arrives at a new destination from Moscow, carrying 82 travelers, with subsequent flights scheduled.
  • 1979 White Night Riots in San Francisco: Violent protests erupted in San Francisco following the controversial manslaughter conviction of Dan White for the assassinations of Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk, highlighting significant tensions around LGBTQ+ rights and perceived judicial injustice.
  • 1980 Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back Premiere: The highly anticipated sequel to Star Wars, 'The Empire Strikes Back', premieres in movie theaters across the United States, becoming an instant cultural phenomenon and expanding the iconic science fiction saga.
  • 1981 Bob Marley Receives State Funeral: Jamaica honored its legendary reggae musician Bob Marley with a state funeral, commemorating the life and global cultural impact of one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century.
  • 1982 Detailed British Amphibious Landing at San Carlos Water: Operation Sutton involved a complex amphibious landing by the British Amphibious Task Group, commanded by Commodore Michael Clapp. The operation deployed 4,000 troops from 3 Commando Brigade, including Royal Artillery, Royal Engineers, and armoured reconnaissance units. The strategic objective was to establish a secure beachhead on the northwestern coast of East Falkland to launch further offensive operations against Argentine forces.
  • 1983 David Bowie's 'Let's Dance' Tops Charts: David Bowie's hit single 'Let's Dance' reaches number one on the United States Billboard chart, marking a significant moment in the musician's commercial success during the early 1980s.
  • 1984 Atari 7800 ProSystem Launch: Atari introduced the Atari 7800 ProSystem, a groundbreaking video game console that represented a significant advancement in home gaming technology. Priced at US$149, the system offered notable improvements over its predecessor, including higher resolution graphics, optional keyboard functionality for home computing, and backward compatibility with Atari 2600 game cartridges. This release positioned Atari to compete more effectively in the rapidly evolving home video game market of the mid-1980s.
  • 1985 Paul Hardcastle's '19' Tops UK Charts: Paul Hardcastle's song '19', a powerful anti-war track about Vietnam War veterans, reached number 1 in the UK. The song was notable for its innovative use of spoken word and electronic music to highlight the psychological impact of war.
  • 1986 US Nuclear Test at Nevada Test Site: On May 21, 1986, the United States conducted a nuclear test at the Nevada Test Site, continuing its Cold War-era nuclear weapons testing program. These underground nuclear tests were part of the ongoing strategic and technological competition with the Soviet Union, aimed at maintaining and demonstrating nuclear capabilities.
  • 1987 Fiji Military Coup: Lieutenant Colonel Sitivani Rabuka led a military coup in the Fiji Islands, marking a significant political disruption in the Pacific region.
  • 1988 Announcement of Who Framed Roger Rabbit: Walt Disney Studios and Steven Spielberg announced the upcoming release of the groundbreaking animated film *Who Framed Roger Rabbit*, which would later revolutionize animation techniques.
  • 1989 Syrian Soldiers Killed in Keserwan Bombing: A bombing near Keserwan, Lebanon resulted in the deaths of 9 Syrian soldiers, reportedly carried out by the Kataeb Regulatory Forces during the complex Lebanese Civil War period. This incident highlights the ongoing sectarian and geopolitical tensions in the region.
  • 1990 First Democratic Election in Russian SFSR: Boris Yeltsin was elected as the first democratically chosen president of the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic, a pivotal moment in the dissolution of the Soviet Union and Russia's transition to democracy.
  • 1991 Assassination of Rajiv Gandhi: Former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was tragically assassinated by a female suicide bomber from the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) during a political rally near Madras (now Chennai). The bombing killed Gandhi and at least 14 other people, marking a significant moment of political violence in India's modern history.
  • 1992 Johnny Carson's Penultimate Tonight Show Episode: After an illustrious 30-year career, Johnny Carson hosted his second-to-last episode of The Tonight Show, featuring memorable guests Robin Williams and Bette Midler, marking the end of an iconic era in American television entertainment.
  • 1993 Xanana Gusmao Sentenced to Life: Xanana Gusmao, a prominent opposition leader in East Timor, was sentenced to life imprisonment, highlighting the political tensions in the region during the struggle for independence.
  • 1994 Giulio Andreotti Mafia Allegations: Italian former minister and Christian Democrat leader Giulio Andreotti is formally accused of having Mafia allegiances by the court of Palermo, marking a significant moment in Italy's fight against organized crime.
  • 1995 Death of Les Aspin: Les Aspin, the United States Secretary of Defense from 1993 to 1995, passed away from a stroke at the age of 56. Aspin was a significant political figure who served during the early years of the Clinton administration, playing a crucial role in national defense policy.
  • 1996 MV Bukoba Maritime Disaster: The MV Bukoba ferry tragically sank in Lake Victoria, Tanzania, resulting in one of Africa's most devastating maritime accidents with nearly 1,000 lives lost. The catastrophic sinking highlighted significant maritime safety concerns in the region.
  • 1997 MMMBop Tops US Charts: The pop song 'MMMBop' by the teenage band Hanson reached number one on the US music charts, becoming a defining pop culture moment of the late 1990s.
  • 1998 Suharto Resigns as President of Indonesia: After 32 years in power and seven consecutive re-elections by the Indonesian Parliament (MPR), President Suharto resigned from his position. His hand-picked Vice President, B. J. Habibie, succeeded him as Indonesia's third president, marking a significant political transition during a period of social and economic unrest.
  • 1999 Susan Lucci Wins Daytime Emmy After 19 Nominations: Television actress Susan Lucci, star of the long-running soap opera 'All My Children', finally wins a Daytime Emmy Award after an unprecedented 19 consecutive nominations. Her victory becomes a celebrated moment in television history, symbolizing perseverance in the entertainment industry.
  • 2000 Death of Sir John Gielgud: Sir John Gielgud, a legendary English actor renowned for his distinguished stage and screen performances, passed away at the age of 96. A towering figure in British theatre, Gielgud was celebrated for his Shakespearean interpretations and versatile acting career spanning several decades.
  • 2001 French Taubira Law Recognizes Slavery as Crime Against Humanity: The French Parliament enacted the Taubira law, a landmark legislation that officially recognized the Atlantic slave trade and slavery as crimes against humanity. This historic law represents a significant step in acknowledging the profound historical injustices and human rights violations committed during the colonial era.
  • 2002 US State Department Releases Terror Sponsors Report: The US State Department released a comprehensive report identifying seven state sponsors of terrorism, including Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, and Sudan. This report highlighted nations deemed to be supporting terrorist activities and posing potential international security risks.
  • 2003 Devastating Boumerdès Earthquake in Algeria: A powerful 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck northern Algeria, causing widespread destruction. The tremor resulted in over 2,200 fatalities and triggered a moderate tsunami that impacted boats in the Balearic Islands. The earthquake's maximum Mercalli intensity was recorded at level X, indicating extreme and catastrophic damage.
  • 2004 Stanislav Petrov Honored for Preventing Nuclear War: Stanislav Petrov, a former Soviet military officer, was awarded the World Citizen Award for his crucial role in preventing a potential nuclear conflict in 1983. During a critical moment in the Cold War, Petrov correctly identified a false alarm in the Soviet early warning system, preventing a potentially catastrophic nuclear retaliation against the United States.
  • 2005 Bush Delivers Controversial Commencement Speech: President George W. Bush delivers a commencement speech at Calvin College, where a significant portion of faculty publicly criticize his administration's policies, particularly regarding the Iraq War, highlighting the deep political divisions of the time.
  • 2006 Montenegro Independence Referendum: The Republic of Montenegro held a historic referendum on May 21, 2006, proposing independence from the State Union of Serbia and Montenegro. With 55% of voters supporting secession, Montenegro officially began its path to becoming an independent nation, marking a significant geopolitical transformation in the Balkan region.
  • 2007 Bill Richardson Presidential Campaign Launch: Bill Richardson, the Democratic Governor of New Mexico, officially announced his candidacy for the 2008 United States Presidential Election in Los Angeles. This marked the beginning of his national political campaign to seek the presidency.
  • 2008 Pakistan-Taliban Peace Agreement: The North West Frontier Province in Pakistan signed a controversial peace agreement with Taliban militants. The agreement stipulated troop withdrawal from Swat Valley and the introduction of Sharia law in exchange for halting suicide bombings and attacks on government buildings.
  • 2009 US Provides Nuclear Energy Framework to UAE: The United States established a comprehensive framework for providing nuclear energy technology and support to the United Arab Emirates, signaling a significant diplomatic and technological collaboration.
  • 2010 Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill Update: BP's Chief Operating Officer provided an update on the Gulf of Mexico oil spill, suggesting the gushing crude oil well might be contained within a week. However, he cautioned that the plugging operation was unprecedented in such deep waters and extremely complex.
  • 2011 After a surprising comeback at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, Wales, in the 2011 Heineken Cup Final, Leinster defeated Northampton Saints in rugby union.
  • 2012 Deadly Suicide Bombing in Yemen: A devastating suicide bombing targeted soldiers practicing for the Unity Day parade in Sana'a, Yemen, killing at least 120 people and injuring more than 350. The terrorist attack was claimed by Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, highlighting the ongoing security challenges in the region.
  • 2013 Chinua Achebe is flown to Lagos to receive a funeral procesional. His remains are awaiting burial in Ogidi (the hometown of the author).
  • 2014 Six people have been killed in anti-China protests in Vietnam, which continue over the South China Sea's oil-rich islands. China sent ships to evacuate 3000 Vietnamese citizens.
  • 2015 Two Russian soldiers captured in Ukraine by the GRU Russian Special Forces were revealed in video interviews. These men, who were claimed to be policemen by the Donetsk People's Republic (separatists), have been identified with their ID badges and claim they are now retired from the Russian military.
  • 2016 Six police officers were killed in an insider attack on Uruzgan province.
  • 2017 The KM Hiu Macan 001 is an Indonesian maritime patrol boat that intercepts five vessels and arrests 55 Vietnamese crew members. However, after an aggressive intervention from the Vietnamese coast guards, the Indonesian authorities are forced to withdraw, release the men, and then return to base empty-handed.
  • 2018 Syrian Civil War: As it forces out ISIS, the Syrian government declares Damascus "completely secure" from militants for the first time since 2007.
  • 2019 Christchurch Mosque Shootings Aftermath: Brenton Tarrant was formally accused of killing 51 people and wounding 49 more in two mosques in New Zealand, with charges of terrorist acts, marking a significant moment in the country's history of hate crime and terrorism.
  • 2020 WHO Reports Record Daily Coronavirus Cases Globally: On May 21, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported the largest single-day increase in coronavirus cases since the pandemic's onset, with 106,000 new infections in 24 hours. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted that two-thirds of these cases were concentrated in four countries, which included the United States, Russia, Brazil, and the United Kingdom. The global coronavirus cases surpassed a significant milestone of 5 million infections, with the worldwide death toll reaching 328,368, including 93,439 deaths in the United States. Dr. Tedros emphasized that the world still has a considerable journey ahead in managing the pandemic.
  • 2021 Israel-Palestine Crisis and Chaman Bombing: On May 21, 2021, multiple tragic events unfolded: A bombing at a Palestine solidarity rally in Chaman, Balochistan, Pakistan killed seven people and wounded 14. In Gaza, ten more bodies were discovered under bombed buildings, raising the Palestinian death toll to 243. Israeli security forces also used stun grenades and rubber bullets against Palestinians at Al-Aqsa Mosque, injuring at least 20 people.
  • 2022 Russia Claims Victory in Mariupol: Russia announced complete control of Mariupol, a strategic Ukrainian city, potentially marking a significant milestone in the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. This claim represents a potential major victory for Russian President Vladimir Putin's military offensive.
  • 2023 Pro-EU Demonstration in Moldova: Over 75,000 people gathered in Chișinău, Moldova, to demonstrate support for European Union membership. The rally was organized by President Maia Sandu to counter anti-government and pro-Russian opposition demonstrations.

What Is special about May 21?

May 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 May 21.