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

Events on November 21 - Key Moments Throughout History

1901 First Professional Night Football Game in America: On November 21, 1901, a groundbreaking moment in American sports history occurred when the Philadelphia Football Athletics made history by defeating the Kanaweola Athletic Club of Elmira, New York, with a decisive 39-0 victory. This match was significant as it became the first professionally played American football game to be held under artificial lighting, marking a pivotal moment in sports entertainment and technological innovation.
1902 First Professional Night Football Game in History: On November 21, 1902, a groundbreaking moment in sports history occurred when the Philadelphia Athletics played the first-ever professional night football game against the Kanaweola Athletic Club from Elmira, New York. The game was a decisive victory for Philadelphia, who defeated their opponents with a commanding 39-0 score. This event marked a significant milestone in American football, demonstrating the potential for evening sporting events and expanding the accessibility of the sport to wider audiences.
1903 Uneventful Day in 1903: While no major historical events were documented for November 21, 1903, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. Many important moments in history happen quietly, without immediate recognition. During this period, the world was experiencing significant technological and social transformations, including the early days of aviation, industrial expansion, and geopolitical shifts.
1904 Uneventful Day in 1904: While no specific major historical events were recorded for November 21, 1904, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. During this period, the world was experiencing significant global transformations, including the early stages of industrialization, colonial expansions, and emerging geopolitical tensions leading up to World War I.
1905 Einstein's Mass-Energy Equivalence Paper Published: Albert Einstein published a groundbreaking scientific paper in the journal 'Annalen der Physik' revealing the fundamental relationship between energy and mass. This seminal work introduced the famous mass-energy equivalence formula E = mc², which would become one of the most important equations in physics, fundamentally transforming our understanding of energy, matter, and the nature of the universe.
1906 China's Landmark Opium Trade Prohibition: In a significant move towards addressing widespread opium addiction, the Chinese government officially prohibited the opium trade, marking a critical moment in the country's efforts to combat drug trafficking and its devastating social consequences. This decision came after decades of destructive opium wars and widespread substance abuse that had severely impacted Chinese society and national health.
1907 Washington State College Wins Apple Cup: In a notable college football match, Washington State College triumphed over the University of Washington with a score of 10-5 in the Apple Cup, which was played in Seattle. This early iteration of the historic rivalry game demonstrated Washington State College's football prowess during the early 20th century.
1908 Elizabeth George Speare - Notable Children's Author Born: Elizabeth George Speare was an acclaimed American children's book author known for her historical fiction works. She won the Newbery Medal twice, for 'The Witch of Blackbird Pond' (1959) and 'The Bronze Bow' (1962), making significant contributions to children's literature in the mid-20th century.
1909 German Scientific Research Memorandum by Adolf von Harnack: Renowned scholar and theologian Adolf von Harnack delivered a confidential memorandum to Kaiser Wilhelm II, emphasizing the critical importance of advancing German scientific research. The document likely highlighted the strategic value of scientific innovation for national development and global competitiveness during the early 20th century.
1910 Revolta da Chibata: Brazilian Naval Revolt of 1910: On November 21, 1910, Brazilian sailors aboard the powerful warships Minas Geraes, São Paulo, and Bahia launched a violent rebellion against systemic racial and social discrimination in the Brazilian Navy. The revolt, known as 'Revolta da Chibata' (Revolt of the Lash), was a significant protest against the brutal corporal punishment practices that disproportionately targeted Afro-Brazilian sailors, who were often former slaves or descendants of slaves. Led by João Cândido Felisberto, known as the 'Black Admiral', the sailors seized control of the ships and demanded an end to flogging and improved working conditions.
1911 Amundsen Reaches Axel Heiberg Glacier Plateau: Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen and his expedition team successfully navigated the challenging terrain of the Axel Heiberg Glacier, reaching its expansive plateau after an arduous four-day ascent. This milestone was a critical part of Amundsen's historic Antarctic expedition, which would ultimately lead to his successful conquest of the South Pole on December 14, 1911, becoming the first person to reach this geographic landmark.
1912 Birth of Eleanor Powell, Hollywood Dance Legend: Eleanor Powell, a pioneering American actress and dancer who would become one of the most celebrated tap dancers in Hollywood's golden age, was born on November 21, 1912, in Springfield, Massachusetts. Known for her extraordinary tap dancing skills and dynamic screen presence, Powell would later star in numerous MGM musicals during the 1930s and 1940s, working alongside legendary performers like Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly.
1913 Olds School of Agriculture and Home Economics Establishment: The Olds School of Agriculture and Home Economics was officially inaugurated on a demonstration farm in Olds, Alberta, Canada. This educational institution represented an important milestone in agricultural and home economics education in the region, providing specialized training for rural communities.
1914 British Capture of Basra: During World War I, British forces successfully captured the strategic port city of Basra in Ottoman-controlled Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq), marking a significant early campaign in the Middle Eastern theater of the war.
1915 Endurance Shipwreck During Shackleton's Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition: Ernest Shackleton's legendary Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition suffered a dramatic setback when the ship Endurance was crushed by pack ice and ultimately sank in the harsh Antarctic waters of the Weddell Sea. This moment marked a critical turning point in one of the most remarkable survival stories in exploration history. Despite the ship's destruction, Shackleton and his crew would go on to survive an incredible two-year ordeal, ultimately returning home without a single life lost—a testament to human resilience and leadership in the face of extreme adversity.
1916 Death of Emperor Franz Josef of Austria: Emperor Franz Josef I of Austria-Hungary passed away after a 68-year reign, marking the end of an era for the Austro-Hungarian Empire. His death came during the tumultuous period of World War I, and he was succeeded by his grandnephew, Archduke Karl.
1917 First Successful Tank Deployment in Modern Warfare: At the Battle of Cambrai during World War I, tanks were used successfully in combat for the first time, representing a revolutionary moment in military technology and tactics. This breakthrough would fundamentally transform warfare strategies in the 20th century.
1918 German Naval Surrender: The British battleship Queen Elizabeth leads the surrendering German fleet, marking a symbolic conclusion to naval hostilities in World War I and representing the comprehensive defeat of the German Imperial Navy.
1919 Labor Organizer Murders in Bogalusa: On November 21, 1919, in Bogalusa, Louisiana, the district president of the American Federation of Labor and two other white men were fatally shot while attempting to support an African-American labor organizer who was working to unionize workers at the Great Southern Lumber Company. This incident underscores the racial and labor tensions prevalent in the Southern United States during this period.
1920 Bloody Sunday during the Anglo-Irish War: A pivotal and tragic day in Irish history where tensions between Irish Republicans and British forces escalated dramatically. On November 21, 1920, the Irish Republican Army (IRA) launched coordinated assassinations of British Intelligence agents in Dublin, followed by brutal retaliation from British forces that resulted in civilian casualties.
1921 Canada Receives First Official Armorial Bearings: On November 21, 1921, Canada was granted its own distinctive armorial bearings by Royal Proclamation of King George V of the United Kingdom. This significant heraldic event symbolized Canada's growing national identity and autonomy within the British Empire, marking an important milestone in the country's journey towards full sovereignty.
1922 First Female US Senator Takes Office: Rebecca L. Felton from Georgia was sworn in as the first female United States Senator, marking a historic milestone in women's political representation. At 87 years old, she broke significant ground for women in American politics, serving briefly but symbolically important term.
1923 No Significant Historical Record: After thorough review, no notable historical event was found for November 21, 1923. This could indicate a relatively uneventful day in global history.
1924 British Premier Cancels Labor Contract with USSR: On November 21, 1924, British Premier Stanley Baldwin terminated the labor contract with the Soviet Union, reflecting the ongoing diplomatic tensions between the United Kingdom and the newly established Soviet state during the interwar period.
1925 Red Grange's Final College Football Game and NFL Transition: Harold 'Red' Grange, a legendary football player, played his final game for the University of Illinois and subsequently signed a professional contract with the Chicago Bears, marking a significant moment in early professional football history. Grange, known as the 'Galloping Ghost', was instrumental in legitimizing professional football and attracting public interest in the nascent NFL.
1926 Chiang Kai-shek's Declaration on Chinese Sovereignty: In a pivotal statement to the Associated Press, Nationalist leader Chiang Kai-shek articulated a bold vision for China's revolutionary struggle, emphasizing that the ongoing national transformation would continue until all unequal treaties with foreign powers were completely abolished. This declaration underscored the deep-seated desire for national self-determination and an end to colonial-era impositions that had long undermined Chinese territorial and economic independence.
1927 Columbine Mine Massacre: On November 21, 1927, a violent confrontation occurred between striking coal miners and Colorado state police during a labor dispute. State police, disguised in civilian clothing, attacked striking workers with machine guns, resulting in multiple casualties and highlighting the intense tensions between labor and management during the early 20th century.
1928 King George V's Serious Illness: King George V became seriously ill with sepsis, a life-threatening condition caused by the body's extreme response to an infection. This medical emergency raised significant concerns about the monarch's health and potential succession implications.
1929 Dow Jones Industrial Average Recovery: The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at 248.49 points after a week of steady recovery that helped to erase most of the losses incurred before October 29, signaling potential economic stabilization following the initial stock market crash.
1930 Douglas MacArthur Becomes U.S. Army Chief of Staff: On November 21, 1930, Douglas MacArthur was officially sworn in as the Chief of Staff of the United States Army, a pivotal moment in his distinguished military career. As a highly decorated World War I veteran and respected military leader, MacArthur would go on to play a crucial role in shaping U.S. military strategy during World War II and the Korean War. His appointment marked a significant period of modernization and strategic development for the U.S. Army in the interwar years.
1931 Universal Pictures Releases Iconic Frankenstein Film: Universal Pictures released the landmark horror film 'Frankenstein', starring Boris Karloff as the Monster. This adaptation of Mary Shelley's novel created the definitive visual representation of Frankenstein's Monster, establishing an enduring image in popular culture and significantly influencing the horror film genre.
1932 Hitler Declines Initial Chancellorship Offer: In a pivotal moment of German political history, Adolf Hitler was offered the chancellorship by President Paul von Hindenburg. However, Hitler strategically refused to accept the offer due to Hindenburg's conditions, which included running a coalition cabinet and respecting previous governmental decrees. This rejection would set the stage for future political maneuvering that would ultimately lead to his rise to power.
1933 First US Ambassador to Soviet Union Takes Office: William C. Bullitt became the first United States Ambassador to the Soviet Union, marking a significant diplomatic milestone in US-Soviet relations during the early years of Franklin D. Roosevelt's administration. This appointment represented a key moment in diplomatic recognition and potential engagement between the two nations following the Soviet Union's establishment.
1934 Yankees Acquire Joe DiMaggio: The New York Yankees purchased baseball legend Joe DiMaggio from the San Francisco Seals, a move that would significantly impact the team's future success and baseball history.
1935 Nazi Economic Discrimination Against Jews: A discriminatory decree by Reich Economics Minister Hjalmar Schacht took effect, systematically excluding Jews from membership in Germany's eight stock exchanges, representing an escalation of Nazi economic antisemitism.
1936 Irish Brigade Departs for Spanish Civil War: On November 21, 1936, Eoin O'Duffy, a former Irish Army Chief of Staff and leader of the pro-Fascist Blueshirt movement, led a volunteer brigade of Irish soldiers to Spain to support General Francisco Franco's Nationalist forces during the Spanish Civil War. This controversial expedition represented a small but ideologically motivated international intervention in the conflict, driven by O'Duffy's anti-communist and right-wing political beliefs.
1937 Lord Halifax's Fateful Nazi Germany Visit: Lord Halifax concluded his diplomatic visit to Nazi Germany, returning to London with a misguided belief that Adolf Hitler could be reasoned with. This visit significantly influenced Neville Chamberlain's subsequent appeasement policy towards Nazi Germany, a strategy that would ultimately prove disastrous in preventing World War II.
1938 Nazi Occupation of Western Czechoslovakia: Nazi Germany forcibly occupied the western regions of Czechoslovakia, unilaterally declaring the Czech population as German citizens in a clear violation of international sovereignty. This event was part of the broader Nazi expansionist strategy leading up to World War II, demonstrating Adolf Hitler's aggressive territorial ambitions and the systematic dismantling of Czechoslovakia's independence.
1939 British Government Declares Naval Blockade Against Germany: In response to maritime incidents including the sinking of the SS Athenia and SS Simon Bolivar, Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain announced in the House of Commons that the British government would implement a comprehensive blockade. German exports and goods of German origin would be subject to seizure on international waters, escalating economic warfare during the early stages of World War II.
1940 Nazi Espionage Threat in US Cities: The United States government publicly revealed the presence of Nazi agents operating in eight major American cities, warning of potential sabotage, espionage, propaganda dissemination, and efforts to create social discord during the early stages of World War II.
1941 German Forces Capture Rostov: During Operation Barbarossa, German Field Marshal Gerd von Rundstedt's army group successfully seized the strategically important city of Rostov on the Don river, marking a significant moment in the German invasion of the Soviet Union.
1942 German Military Reorganization in World War II: Adolf Hitler appoints Field Marshal Erich von Manstein as commander of the newly-created Army Group Don (Heeresgruppe Don), a strategic military reorganization during the critical phase of the Eastern Front in World War II.
1943 US Amphibious Landing on Makin Island: US Army and Marine forces successfully conduct an amphibious invasion of Makin Island in the Pacific Theater. In a decisive battle, American troops overwhelm the Japanese defenders, killing approximately 800 soldiers and leaving only one survivor. The island is officially captured, marking a strategic victory in the Pacific campaign.
1944 USS Submarine Action in Formosa Strait: During World War II, an American submarine engaged in a significant naval battle in the Formosa Strait, sinking a Japanese battleship and destroyer, contributing to the Allied naval superiority in the Pacific Theater.
1945 General Motors' workers go on strike.
1946 President Truman's Historic Submarine Voyage: Harry S. Truman made history by becoming the first U.S. President to ride underwater in a submarine. During a visit to the Navy base at Key West, he boarded the captured German submarine U-2513. Accompanied by 22 other individuals, Truman descended 440 feet below the surface and witnessed a classified demonstration of advanced submarine technology, including the innovative 'Schnorchel' snorkel system developed by Nazi engineers. Reporters were excluded from the expedition, adding to the mission's secretive nature.
1947 UN Conference on Trade and Employment in Havana: The United Nations Conference on Trade and Employment commenced in Havana, Cuba, marking a significant diplomatic gathering aimed at establishing international economic cooperation and trade regulations. Delegates from multiple nations convened to discuss and draft the Havana Charter, which would ultimately provide a framework for global economic interactions in the post-World War II era.
1948 Madame Chiang Kai-shek's Urgent Radio Appeal to the United States: On November 21, 1948, Madame Chiang Kai-shek delivered a powerful radio broadcast from Nanjing, China, directly addressing the American public. In her impassioned plea, she urgently called for immediate and substantial American aid to the Nationalist government in its escalating conflict with the Communist forces led by Mao Zedong. She framed the struggle not just as a Chinese civil war, but as a critical geopolitical battle with global implications. Madame Chiang argued that if China fell to communism, it would dramatically weaken the United States' strategic position, warning that China's vast resources, strategic location, and manpower in Communist hands would pose a significant threat to American interests in Asia.
1949 New Zealand Announces National Anthems: Minister of Internal Affairs Allan Highet officially announced that New Zealand would recognize two national anthems: the traditional 'God Save the Queen' and 'God Defend New Zealand', reflecting the country's historical and cultural ties to the British monarchy.
1950 US 7th Infantry Division Reaches Yalu River: On November 21, 1950, troops of the United States Army's 7th Infantry Division, part of the X Corps, became the first American military unit to reach the Yalu River during the Korean War. This strategic advance marked a significant moment in the conflict, bringing American forces close to the border with China.
1951 Birth of Thomas Roth, Prominent German Television News Anchor: Thomas Roth was born on November 21, 1951, in Germany. He would go on to become a distinguished television news anchor and presenter, known for his significant contributions to German broadcast journalism. Throughout his career, Roth became a respected figure in media, delivering news and information to millions of Germans over several decades.
1952 Jomo Kenyatta's Arrest by British Colonial Authorities: The British colonial administration arrests Jomo Kenyatta, a prominent Kenyan nationalist leader, on allegations of involvement with the Mau Mau uprising, a significant moment in Kenya's struggle for independence.
1953 Piltdown Man Hoax Exposed: The British Natural History Museum officially announced that the famous 'Piltdown Man' fossil skull, discovered in 1912 and long considered a significant archaeological find, was definitively proven to be an elaborate scientific fraud. This revelation exposed one of the most notorious hoaxes in the history of paleoanthropology, where a fabricated skull had misled researchers for decades.
1954 Uneventful Day in 1954: While no major historical events were documented for November 21, 1954, this does not necessarily mean nothing of significance occurred. Many days in history pass without remarkable global events, yet local or personal histories continue to unfold. The mid-1950s were a period of post-World War II reconstruction, Cold War tensions, and emerging social changes across the world.
1955 KTVO Television Channel 3 Launches in Iowa: KTVO TV channel 3, an ABC affiliate, commenced broadcasting in the Ottumwa-Kirksville metropolitan area of Iowa, expanding local media and entertainment options for residents in the region.
1956 DIDO Nuclear Reactor Inaugurated: The DIDO heavy water enriched uranium nuclear reactor is officially opened at the Atomic Energy Research Establishment in Harwell, Oxfordshire, England. This advanced research reactor represents a significant milestone in nuclear science and technological development during the mid-1950s Cold War era.
1957 French-Algerian Conflict Escalation: During the Algerian War of Independence, French military forces engaged in a significant combat operation, killing 42 Algerian rebels and capturing 10 additional combatants. In this intense encounter, six French soldiers were also killed, highlighting the brutal nature of the colonial conflict.
1958 Founding of Universidad de Oriente in Venezuela: The Universidad de Oriente Venezuela was officially established by Decree Law No. 459, with the primary mission of providing higher education to students in eastern Venezuela. This institution would play a crucial role in expanding educational opportunities in the region.
1959 Alan Freed Fired from WABC Radio in Payola Scandal: Influential American disc jockey Alan Freed, who was instrumental in popularizing the term 'rock and roll' and the music genre itself, was dismissed from WABC radio due to allegations of participating in the payola scandal, where radio DJs were bribed to play specific records.
1960 Mercury-Redstone 1 Launch Attempt: NASA conducted an attempted launch of the Mercury-Redstone 1 rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida, as part of the early Mercury space program. This launch was a critical step in the United States' emerging space exploration efforts during the Cold War era.
1961 First Revolving Restaurant in the United States: La Ronde: On November 21, 1961, the innovative 'La Ronde' restaurant opened in Honolulu, Hawaii, located on the 23rd floor of the Ala Moana Building. This groundbreaking dining establishment became the first revolving restaurant in the United States, offering patrons a unique 360-degree panoramic view of Honolulu's cityscape and surrounding landscapes while enjoying their meals.
1962 Cuban Missile Crisis Resolution: The United States ceased all quarantine actions against the Soviets in the Caribbean, effectively ending the Cuban Missile Crisis and reducing global nuclear tension.
1963 JFK flies to Texas
1964 Third Session of Second Vatican Council Closes: Pope Paul VI concludes the third session of the Second Vatican Council, a pivotal moment in modern Catholic Church history that aimed to modernize church practices and improve interfaith relations.
1965 UNDP Established: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is established as a specialized agency of the United Nations, dedicated to eradicating poverty, reducing inequalities, and promoting sustainable development worldwide.
1966 Steve Spurrier Wins Heisman Trophy: Steve Spurrier, quarterback for the University of Florida, was awarded the 32nd Heisman Trophy on November 21, 1966, marking a significant achievement in college football history.
1967 Vietnam War: Westmoreland's Optimistic Statement: During a press conference, United States General William Westmoreland confidently asserted that the military situation in Vietnam had dramatically shifted. He claimed that while the enemy was winning in 1965, by 1967 they were now losing the conflict, signaling a potential turning point in the war.
1968 Cincinnati Reds Trade Leo Cardenas to Minnesota Twins: The Cincinnati Reds traded shortstop Leo Cardenas to the Minnesota Twins in exchange for pitcher Jim Merritt, marking a significant player exchange during the 1968 baseball season.
1969 First Permanent ARPANET Link Established: The first permanent ARPANET link was established between UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles) and SRI (Stanford Research Institute), marking a crucial milestone in the development of the internet and computer networking technology.
1970 Vietnam War: Operation Ivory Coast: A daring joint Air Force and Army mission raided the Son Tay prison camp to rescue American POWs. Although no prisoners were found at the location (they had been moved), the operation led to significant changes in POW management, with prisoners consolidated into central prison complexes.
1971 Battle of Garibpur: Indian and Bengali Forces Defeat Pakistani Army: In a significant military engagement preceding the Indo-Pakistani War, Indian troops, collaborating with Mukti Bahini (Bengali guerrillas), successfully defeat the Pakistan army in the Battle of Garibpur, marking a crucial moment in the Bangladesh Liberation War.
1972 South Korean Constitutional Referendum: On November 21, 1972, South Korean voters overwhelmingly approved a new constitution, which solidified President Park Chung Hee's political power and established the Fourth Republic. This constitutional referendum was a pivotal moment in South Korean political history, effectively consolidating Park's authoritarian regime and providing legal legitimacy to his continued leadership.
1973 Watergate Tape Gap Revelation: U.S. President Richard Nixon's attorney, J. Fred Buzhardt, revealed the existence of an 18½-minute gap in one of the White House tape recordings related to the Watergate scandal, raising significant questions about potential evidence tampering.
1974 Birmingham Pub Bombings: On November 21, 1974, the Provisional IRA conducted a devastating terrorist attack in Birmingham, England, bombing two pubs and killing 21 people while injuring 182 others. The tragedy led to the wrongful conviction of six Irish men, known as the Birmingham Six, who were later acquitted after years of imprisonment, highlighting significant miscarriages of justice in the British legal system.
1975 Linda McCartney drug charges in US are dropped
1976 Birth of Romanian Long-Distance Runner Mihaela Botezan: Mihaela Botezan, a notable Romanian long-distance runner, was born on November 21, 1976, in Romania. She would later become a significant athlete representing her country in international competitions, contributing to Romania's athletic legacy in track and field events.
1977 Concorde's First London to New York Flight: The Concorde supersonic passenger airliner completed its inaugural transatlantic flight from London to New York, symbolizing a breakthrough in commercial aviation technology and international travel.
1978 Bob Horner Wins NL Rookie of the Year: Bob Horner of the Atlanta Braves was awarded the National League Rookie of the Year Award on November 21, 1978. The young third baseman had an impressive debut season, showcasing exceptional batting skills and promising potential for the Braves franchise.
1979 US Embassy Attack in Islamabad: A violent mob attacked the United States Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan, resulting in one fatality and significant damage to the diplomatic building. The attack was reportedly triggered by inflammatory rumors about U.S. involvement in a religious incident in Mecca.
1980 Deadly MGM Grand Hotel Fire in Las Vegas: A catastrophic fire broke out at the MGM Grand Hotel in Paradise, Nevada (now Bally's Las Vegas), resulting in one of the worst disasters in Nevada's history. The blaze killed 85 people and injured over 650, with investigations revealing the cause was a faulty electrical system on the first floor. The fire led to significant changes in building safety codes and fire prevention standards.
1981 Mass Anti-Nuclear Missile Protest in Amsterdam: Approximately 400,000 people demonstrated in Amsterdam against the deployment of cruise missiles, reflecting widespread European opposition to nuclear armament during the Cold War era.
1982 Darrell Waltrip Wins NASCAR Cup Series Championship: Darrell Waltrip secured his first NASCAR Cup Series championship in 1982, marking a significant milestone in his racing career. Known for his aggressive driving style and competitive spirit, Waltrip dominated the racing circuit that year, showcasing his exceptional skill and establishing himself as a prominent figure in stock car racing.
1983 Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' Music Video Premiere: Michael Jackson's groundbreaking 14-minute music video for 'Thriller' premiered in Los Angeles. Directed by renowned filmmaker John Landis and co-starring model Ola Ray, the video featured a memorable spoken word performance by horror film icon Vincent Price. This cinematic music video would go on to revolutionize the music video genre and become one of the most iconic visual productions in pop culture history.
1984 Operation Moses: Ethiopian Jewish Refugee Evacuation: Operation Moses was a covert Israeli rescue mission that began on November 21, 1984, aimed at evacuating Ethiopian Jews (Beta Israel community) from refugee camps in Sudan to Israel. The operation was a complex humanitarian effort that involved secret airlift operations through Brussels, Belgium, helping thousands of Ethiopian Jews escape challenging conditions and potential persecution to resettle in Israel. This mission was part of a broader initiative to bring Ethiopian Jews to their ancestral homeland, reflecting both humanitarian concerns and Israel's commitment to Jewish immigration.
1985 US and UK Economic Sanctions Against Apartheid South Africa: The United States and United Kingdom jointly imposed comprehensive economic sanctions on South Africa as a direct response to the country's systemic racial segregation policy of apartheid. These sanctions were part of an international effort to pressure the South African government to dismantle its discriminatory racial policies and promote racial equality.
1986 Iran-Contra Affair: Document Destruction Begins: National Security Council member Oliver North and his secretary began systematically shredding documents that would implicate them in the illegal sale of weapons to Iran and the covert funding of Contra rebels in Nicaragua, a pivotal moment in the unfolding Iran-Contra scandal.
1987 Jonathan Pollard Spy Arrest: U.S. Navy intelligence analyst Jonathan Pollard was arrested for espionage after being caught passing classified national defense information to Israel. His arrest on November 21, 1987, marked a significant breach of national security and led to a controversial life sentence. Pollard's case became a complex diplomatic and legal issue between the United States and Israel.
1988 Canadian Federal Election: Progressive Conservatives Secure Second Majority: Brian Mulroney leads the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada to a decisive second consecutive majority government, reinforcing the party's political dominance in the late 1980s.
1989 Namibia's Constitutional Drafting Begins: The Members of the Constituent Assembly of Namibia commenced drafting the country's constitution, a crucial step in establishing the legal framework for the newly independent nation following its liberation from South African rule.
1990 End of Cold War Declaration Signed in Paris: A landmark diplomatic event marking the official conclusion of the Cold War, with world leaders signing a declaration in Paris, France, symbolizing the end of decades of geopolitical tension between the Western and Eastern blocs.
1991 Maastricht Treaty Signed, Establishing European Union: The Maastricht Treaty was signed on this day, marking a pivotal moment in European history by formally establishing the European Union and laying the groundwork for deeper political and economic integration among European nations.
1992 Senator Bob Packwood Sexual Misconduct Apology: Oregon Senator Bob Packwood publicly issues an apology for making unwelcome sexual advances, marking a significant moment in addressing workplace sexual harassment and misconduct at the highest levels of government.
1993 Pierre Gemayel Assassination: Anti-Syrian Lebanese Minister and Member of Parliament Pierre Gemayel is assassinated in suburban Beirut, marking a significant moment of political violence in Lebanon.
1994 Nintendo Releases Donkey Kong Country: Nintendo launched the groundbreaking video game Donkey Kong Country for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in the United States and Canada. Developed by the British game studio Rare, the game was notable for its revolutionary pre-rendered 3D graphics that were unprecedented for console games at the time. Priced at $69.95, the game became an instant commercial success and critically acclaimed title that significantly influenced platform gaming in the mid-1990s.
1995 Dayton Peace Agreement Ends Bosnian War: The Dayton Peace Agreement was initialled at Wright Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, Ohio, effectively ending three and a half years of devastating conflict in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The agreement was formally ratified in Paris on December 14, 1995, marking a significant diplomatic breakthrough in resolving the Bosnian War.
1996 Canadian Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples Report: The Canadian Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples issued a landmark recommendation calling for a complete restructuring of the relationship between indigenous and non-indigenous populations in Canada, highlighting the need for reconciliation and systemic change.
1997 Devastating Earthquake in India-Bangladesh Border Region: A significant magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck the India-Bangladesh border region, causing substantial destruction. The seismic event resulted in 23 fatalities and injured approximately 200 people. In Chittagong, Bangladesh, a five-story building collapsed, highlighting the earthquake's destructive power and the vulnerability of local infrastructure.
1998 Nintendo Releases Landmark Video Game: Nintendo released The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, a groundbreaking video game that would become one of the most critically acclaimed and influential games in the history of interactive entertainment. The game revolutionized 3D action-adventure gameplay and set new standards for storytelling in video games.
1999 Elián González Custody Case: Five-year-old Elián González departs Cuba with his mother, Marisleysis Gonzalez, following a highly publicized international custody battle that captured global media attention and highlighted complex US-Cuba relations.
2000 Bill Clinton's Final Year as President: Bill Clinton, a two-term Democratic president, was nearing the end of his presidency, having served from 1993 to 2001 and overseeing significant economic growth and political reforms.
2001 President Bush Shares Thanksgiving with Troops: President George W. Bush visited a military base during Thanksgiving, sharing a traditional turkey dinner with soldiers and acknowledging the significant deployment of over 3,000 troops to Kosovo for six-month rotational missions, demonstrating presidential support for military personnel during the early stages of the War on Terror.
2002 NATO Prague Summit Expands Alliance: The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) held a significant summit in Prague, Czech Republic, where seven Eastern European countries were invited to join the alliance. This marked a major geopolitical expansion following the end of the Cold War, symbolizing the integration of former Eastern Bloc countries into Western strategic frameworks.
2003 Insurgent Attack in Baghdad: Rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) were fired from donkey carts targeting two hotels and the oil ministry building in Baghdad during early morning hours. The attack resulted in one casualty and minor property damage, highlighting the ongoing security challenges in post-invasion Iraq.
2004 Ukrainian Presidential Election Controversy: The final round of Ukraine's presidential election saw Viktor Yanukovych declared the winner, sparking significant international criticism and massive protest rallies in Kiev due to suspected electoral irregularities.
2005 Iraqi Leaders Demand Troop Withdrawal Timeline: A diverse group of Iraqi leaders, including Sunni, Shiite, and Kurdish representatives, signed a statement demanding a specific timetable for the withdrawal of foreign troops from Iraq, signaling growing political consensus.
2006 Assassination of Pierre Gemayel: Pierre Amine Gemayel, Lebanon's Minister of Industry and an anti-Syrian politician, was assassinated in Beirut. This politically motivated murder highlighted the ongoing tensions and instability in Lebanese politics during this period.
2007 Breakthrough in Stem Cell Research: Researchers from Kyoto, San Francisco, and Wisconsin published groundbreaking evidence demonstrating that human skin cells can be transformed into stem cells through retroviral gene insertion, potentially revolutionizing medical research.
2008 Global Financial Crisis Impact on Russia: A comprehensive overview of the financial crisis affecting Russia and global markets, highlighting economic challenges and disruptions across multiple sectors.
2009 Obama's Approval Rating Declines: A Gallup poll reveals that President Barack Obama's job approval rating has fallen below 50 percent, indicating growing public dissatisfaction.
2010 Eurozone Rescue Package for Ireland: In response to Ireland's severe financial crisis, Eurozone countries agreed to a comprehensive rescue package from the European Financial Stability Facility to stabilize the Republic of Ireland's economy.
2011 Khmer Rouge Leaders on Trial for Genocide: Three of the most senior members of Cambodia's Khmer Rouge regime are being prosecuted for genocide and other serious crimes, marking a significant moment in international criminal justice.
2012 Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Announced: At 7:00 PM local time, a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was jointly announced by Egyptian Foreign Minister Mohamed Kamel Amr and U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, ending several days of intense conflict.
2013 Senate Filibuster Rule Change: The U.S. Senate voted 52-48 to invoke the 'nuclear option,' fundamentally changing Senate rules by eliminating the filibuster for most presidential nominees. This procedural change allowed a simple majority to end debate and advance executive and judicial branch nominations, significantly altering the legislative landscape.
2014 House Republicans Sue President Obama: The United States House of Representatives initiated a legal challenge against President Barack Obama, contesting executive actions related to the implementation of the Affordable Care Act.
2015 UN Unanimously Resolves to Fight ISIS: The United Nations Security Council passed a unanimous resolution urging countries to take 'all necessary measures' to combat the Islamic State, following the Paris terrorist attacks. The 15-0 vote notably included Russia, despite ongoing diplomatic tensions.
2016 Trump's First Presidential Plans: President-elect Donald Trump announced his initial policy agenda, which included withdrawing from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and removing restrictions on domestic energy production, signaling a significant shift in U.S. economic and trade policies.
2017 Robert Mugabe Resigns from Zimbabwe Presidency: After nearly four decades of authoritarian rule, Robert Mugabe formally resigned as President of Zimbabwe, marking a historic transition of power. His resignation came shortly after military intervention and the launch of impeachment proceedings, effectively ending his long and controversial tenure.
2018 Yemen's Humanitarian Crisis: Save the Children released a harrowing report estimating that 85,000 children have died from starvation as a consequence of the ongoing Yemeni Civil War, underscoring the severe humanitarian crisis in the region.
2019 Sondland Testifies on Trump-Ukraine Pressure: U.S. Ambassador Gordon Sondland testified that President Trump directly ordered him to collaborate with Rudy Giuliani to pressure Ukraine into investigating Joe Biden and his son Hunter, a key moment in the impeachment inquiry.
2020 Pfizer Seeks COVID-19 Vaccine Emergency Authorization: Pharmaceutical giant Pfizer officially submitted an application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for emergency use authorization of its groundbreaking COVID-19 vaccine, marking a critical milestone in the global fight against the pandemic.
2021 Jerusalem Old City Shooting: On November 21, 2021, a Hamas gunman carried out a shooting attack in the narrow alleyways of Jerusalem's Old City, killing one Israeli civilian and wounding three others. The incident ended when Israeli forces neutralized the gunman, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the region.
2022 UN Warns of Nuclear Risk at Zaporizhzhia Plant: The United Nations' International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) strongly condemned ongoing shelling at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which is currently under Russian control. IAEA Director Rafael Grossi described the shelling as 'extremely disturbing' and emphasized the critical risk of a potential nuclear disaster.
2023 Israeli Attacks in Gaza: Significant Civilian Casualties: On November 21, 2023, Israeli forces conducted a bombing operation in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, resulting in at least 20 Palestinian fatalities. According to Palestinian officials, the total Palestinian death toll from Israeli strikes has reached over 13,300, with more than 5,000 of these victims being children. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres strongly condemned the killings and called for an immediate cessation of violence.

What Is special about November 21?

November 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 November 21.