February 21 has witnessed a remarkable array of historical events that span centuries and continents. From tragic pogroms in medieval Europe to groundbreaking innovations in transportation, this date carries a weight of human struggle and achievement. Key battles, cultural milestones, and influential figures also mark its legacy. Uncovering the depth of these moments offers a glimpse into history’s intricate tapestry, inviting further exploration of their lasting impact.
History
Major Historical Events
1349 – The Black Death in Europe: The devastating plague, which had been ravaging Europe, led to violent anti-Semitic pogroms in Strasbourg on this date. Hundreds of Jews were publicly burned to death or expelled under the false belief that they were responsible for spreading the disease.
1804 – First Steam Locomotive Run: British engineer Richard Trevithick demonstrated the world’s first steam-powered locomotive in Wales. It marked a great milestone in the development of rail transport, as it successfully hauled a train along the Penydarren Ironworks tramway.
1848 – Communist Manifesto Published: Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels published their groundbreaking political pamphlet, “The Communist Manifesto,” in London. It laid the foundation for modern socialism and communism with its call for class struggle and revolution.
1916 – Battle of Verdun Begins: One of the longest and most brutal battles of World War I started on this day in northeastern France. German forces launched a massive offensive against French positions, leading to nearly a million casualties over ten months.
1965 – Malcolm X Assassinated: Civil rights activist Malcolm X was shot and killed in New York City while preparing to deliver a speech at the Audubon Ballroom. It marked a tragic loss for the African American civil rights movement.
Famous Birthdays
1791 – Carl Czerny: An Austrian composer, teacher, and pianist, Czerny was born on this day in Vienna. He is best remembered for his piano exercises and as a pupil of Beethoven, greatly influencing music education.
1907 – W.H. Auden: The renowned English-American poet, known for his profound and versatile works like “Funeral Blues,” was born in York, England. He became one of the leading literary voices of the 20th century.
1933 – Nina Simone: Born Eunice Kathleen Waymon in Tryon, North Carolina, Nina Simone grew to be an iconic American singer, songwriter, and civil rights activist. She is celebrated for songs like “Feeling Good” and her powerful jazz and blues performances.
1962 – Chuck Palahniuk: The American novelist and freelance journalist, best known for his novel “Fight Club,” which was later adapted into a cult classic film, was born in Pasco, Washington.
1987 – Elliot Page: The Canadian actor and producer, known for roles in films like “Juno” and “Inception,” as well as the Netflix series “The Umbrella Academy,” was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Notable Deaths
1437 – James I of Scotland: The Scottish king, who reigned from 1406, was assassinated on this day in Perth by a group of conspirators led by Sir Robert Graham. It ended his efforts to strengthen royal authority.
1677 – Baruch Spinoza: The Dutch philosopher, a key figure in the Age of Enlightenment and known for his rationalist ideas in works like “Ethics,” died on this day in The Hague at the age of 44.
1965 – Malcolm X: The influential African American Muslim minister and human rights activist was assassinated in New York City at the age of 39. He left behind a complex legacy in the fight for racial equality.
2019 – Peter Tork: The American musician and actor, best known as a member of the 1960s pop band The Monkees, passed away on this day at the age of 77 in Mansfield, Connecticut.
Today in Music History
1958 – First Grammy Awards Announced: The National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences announced the winners of the first-ever Grammy Awards on this day. Domenico Modugno’s “Nel Blu Dipinto Di Blu (Volare)” won Record of the Year.
1970 – Jackson 5 on American Bandstand: The Jackson 5, featuring a young Michael Jackson, made their first appearance on the popular TV show “American Bandstand.” They performed their hit single “I Want You Back” and enthralled audiences nationwide.
1981 – Dolly Parton Hits No. 1: Dolly Parton’s iconic song “9 to 5,” tied to the hit film of the same name, reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. It showcased her crossover appeal in country and pop music.
Today in Sports History
1931 – Chicago White Sox and New York Giants Play First Exhibition Night Game: On this day, the Chicago White Sox and New York Giants played the first-ever exhibition night game in baseball history under floodlights in Houston, Texas. It paved the way for modern night games.
1968 – First NBA Game in Madison Square Garden: The current Madison Square Garden in New York City hosted its first NBA game on this date. The New York Knicks defeated the San Diego Rockets 114-102 in front of a packed crowd.
1986 – Tim Raines Signs with Montreal Expos: Outfielder Tim Raines, a future Hall of Famer, signed a lucrative contract with the Montreal Expos on this day. It solidified his status as one of baseball’s premier leadoff hitters and base stealers.
2010 – Winter Olympics in Vancouver: The 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver saw the United States men’s hockey team upset Canada 5-3 on this day. It marked a great moment in the tournament before Canada ultimately won gold.
Today in Military and Naval History
1916 – Battle of Verdun Commences: As one of the most grueling battles of World War I, the German offensive against French forces began on this day near Verdun-sur-Meuse. It resulted in massive casualties and symbolized the war’s attrition.
1945 – Battle of Iwo Jima Continues: During World War II, U.S. Marines continued their intense fight against Japanese forces on Iwo Jima. By this date, great progress was made toward capturing Mount Suribachi, a key strategic point.
1971 – U.S. Army Lieutenant William Calley Goes on Trial: On this day, the trial of Lieutenant William Calley, charged with the My Lai Massacre during the Vietnam War, drew international attention. Details of the horrific event unfolded in court.
Today in Tech and Science History
1804 – Steam Locomotive Debuts: Richard Trevithick’s steam locomotive made its historic first run on this day in Wales. It hauled iron and passengers along a tramway and heralded the dawn of railway technology.
1878 – First Telephone Directory Published: The first-ever telephone directory was issued on this day in New Haven, Connecticut, by the New Haven District Telephone Company. It listed 50 subscribers in a single-page document.
1953 – Crick and Watson Near DNA Breakthrough: On this day, scientists James Watson and Francis Crick were close to finalizing their model of the DNA double helix. They would formally announce it in April, revolutionizing biology and genetics.
Today in Art, Literature, and Culture
1848 – Communist Manifesto Released: Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels released their influential work “The Communist Manifesto” on this day in London. It shaped political thought and cultural movements for generations.
1925 – The New Yorker Magazine Debuts: The first issue of “The New Yorker,” a magazine known for its sophisticated humor, fiction, and journalism, was published on this day. It became a cultural institution in American media.
1981 – “9 to 5” Film Song Success: Dolly Parton’s song “9 to 5,” tied to the feminist workplace comedy film released in 1980, topped the charts on this day. It reflected cultural shifts in gender roles and workplace dynamics.
2008 – First Knighted Rock Star: On this day, Paul McCartney became one of the few rock stars to receive a knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II for his contributions to music. It solidified his cultural legacy.
Funny & Weird Historical Facts
1885 – Washington Monument Dedicated: On this day, the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C., was officially dedicated. It had taken nearly 40 years to complete due to funding issues and the Civil War, making it a long-delayed tribute to the first U.S. president.
1918 – Last Carolina Parakeet Dies: The last known Carolina parakeet, a brightly colored native American bird, died in captivity at the Cincinnati Zoo on this day. It marked the extinction of the only parrot species native to the eastern United States.
1972 – Nixon’s Peculiar China Visit Gift: During President Richard Nixon’s historic visit to China, which began on this day, he reportedly gifted Chairman Mao Zedong a pair of musk oxen. It was an unusual diplomatic gesture that puzzled many observers.
Today in History for Kids
1804 – First Train Ride Ever: A long time ago, on this day, a man named Richard Trevithick made the first train powered by steam work in Wales. It was like inventing a giant moving toy that could carry people and things!
1848 – A Big Book Idea: Two friends, Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, wrote a special book called “The Communist Manifesto” on this day. They shared ideas about how people could work together to make life fairer for everyone.
1958 – Music Awards Begin: The very first Grammy Awards were announced on this day to celebrate the best music. It was kind of like giving gold stars to singers and bands for their awesome songs.
1981 – Dolly Parton’s Fun Song: A super cool singer named Dolly Parton had her song “9 to 5” become the most popular in America on this day. It was all about working hard and having fun!
Today in History Trivia & Interesting Facts
1804 – Steam Power Changes the World: Did you know that the first steam locomotive ran on this day in Wales? It wasn’t fast by today’s standards, but it showed people that machines could move heavy loads without horses.
1878 – Phone Book Beginnings: The first telephone directory came out on this day in Connecticut. It was just one page long with only 50 names—imagine trying to find your friends with such a tiny list!
1916 – Verdun’s Endless Fight: The Battle of Verdun, which started on this day, lasted almost a whole year. It was so tough that soldiers on both sides called it the “meat grinder” because of how many lives it claimed.
1965 – A Voice Silenced: Malcolm X, a powerful speaker for civil rights, was sadly killed on this day. His ideas about fairness and strength continue to inspire people around the world even now.
1972 – Nixon’s Strange Gift: During his groundbreaking trip to China starting on this day, President Nixon brought musk oxen as a gift. They are huge, furry animals—definitely not your typical present for a world leader!