 |
Top Ten Events on March 21 – Poetry, Rights Movements, and Major Shifts |
"Past
Tracker presents 'Today in History' – Dive into the top historic events,
remarkable birthdays, notable deaths, and intriguing facts that define this
day."
The Erfurt Massacre (1349)
On March 21, 1349, in the German city of Erfurt, a violent massacre took place against the Jewish community. Amidst the fear and panic surrounding the Black Death, false accusations led to mass hysteria and brutal actions. Hundreds of Jews were blamed for poisoning wells and spreading the disease, resulting in a horrific attack. Many were burned alive, while others perished in flames they lit themselves to avoid torture. This tragic event stands as a reminder of how ignorance and fear can fuel discrimination and violence against innocent communities. It is one of the darkest moments in medieval European history.
The Napoleonic Code Adopted (1804)
On March 21, 1804, France adopted the Napoleonic Code, a civil legal system introduced by Napoleon Bonaparte. It replaced the patchwork of feudal laws and unified French law under one code. The Napoleonic Code emphasized equality before the law, the protection of private property, and secular authority. It eliminated privileges based on birth and created a legal foundation that influenced many modern legal systems worldwide. This event is celebrated for promoting justice and legal clarity. It played a pivotal role in shaping both French society and numerous global legal frameworks, becoming one of history's most influential legal reforms.
Sharpeville Massacre in South Africa (1960)
On March 21, 1960, a peaceful protest in Sharpeville, South Africa, ended in tragedy when police opened fire on demonstrators protesting apartheid pass laws. Sixty-nine people were killed and over 180 injured. The massacre sparked international outrage and became a turning point in South Africa's struggle against apartheid. The event drew global attention to the brutality of the apartheid regime and led to increased pressure on the South African government. It is now commemorated annually as Human Rights Day in South Africa. This incident remains one of the most significant events in the global fight for racial justice.
Selma to Montgomery March Begins (1965)
On March 21, 1965, civil rights activists began the third Selma to Montgomery march in Alabama, led by Martin Luther King Jr. After two previous attempts were blocked by violence and opposition, this march was protected by federal forces and successfully completed. Thousands of participants walked 54 miles over several days to demand voting rights for African Americans. The event had a profound impact on public opinion and led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. This march remains one of the most powerful symbols of nonviolent resistance and a milestone in the American civil rights movement.
Namibia Gains Independence (1990)
March 21, 1990, marked the day Namibia officially gained independence from South African rule. After years of struggle and international negotiations, Namibia emerged as a sovereign nation with a constitution and democratically elected government. The country's first president took office, ushering in a new era of freedom and self-governance. Namibia's independence was part of the broader wave of decolonization in Africa during the 20th century. It represented the resilience and determination of its people to overcome colonial oppression and establish a free and just society. The event is celebrated annually as Namibia's Independence Day.
First Tweet on Twitter (2006)
On March 21, 2006, social media took a revolutionary step forward when the first tweet was sent on Twitter. The message, posted by Jack Dorsey, marked the birth of what would become a global communication platform. Twitter transformed how people share information, engage in conversations, and access news in real time. It played a key role in major social movements, political campaigns, and global events. This digital milestone changed the landscape of media, making communication faster and more interactive. March 21 is now remembered as the start of a new era in online connectivity and social networking.
Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary Closes (1963)
March 21, 1963, marked the closure of Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, one of the most infamous prisons in the United States. Located on Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay, the prison housed some of America’s most notorious criminals. It closed due to high operating costs and deteriorating infrastructure. Alcatraz became a symbol of the harsh penal system and is now a popular historical site and tourist attraction. The closure of the prison signaled a shift in the U.S. justice system toward more sustainable and humane incarceration practices. It remains a powerful reminder of the country’s criminal justice history.
Persia Becomes Iran (1935)
On March 21, 1935, the government of Persia officially requested that the international community refer to the country by its native name, Iran. The decision aimed to reflect the nation’s cultural identity and emphasize its Aryan roots. This symbolic change occurred during a period of modernization and national pride. The name Iran had always been used domestically, but this marked the beginning of its global recognition. The renaming was a significant move toward asserting sovereignty and cultural heritage. It remains a key moment in the nation’s modern history and a turning point in its diplomatic and political narrative.
Tokyo Earthquake Devastates Japan (1857)
On March 21, 1857, a catastrophic earthquake struck Tokyo, Japan, causing widespread devastation and loss of life. Thousands of people were killed or injured, and much of the city was reduced to rubble. Fires ignited by the quake caused further destruction. This disaster highlighted the vulnerabilities of urban infrastructure and spurred efforts to improve building codes and emergency preparedness in Japan. The earthquake is remembered as one of the deadliest natural disasters in the country’s history. It remains a stark reminder of nature’s power and the importance of disaster readiness in densely populated cities.
Ponce Massacre in Puerto Rico (1937)
On March 21, 1937, a peaceful march organized by Puerto Rican nationalists turned deadly when police opened fire on the crowd in Ponce. The protest was meant to commemorate the abolition of slavery and protest U.S. colonial rule. The violent response resulted in 19 deaths and hundreds of injuries. The Ponce Massacre became a symbol of Puerto Rico’s struggle for self-determination and resistance against colonial oppression. It intensified the island's nationalist movement and remains a deeply significant event in Puerto Rican history. March 21 continues to be a day of remembrance for those who lost their lives in pursuit of justice.
Famous Birthdays on March 21
-
Johann Sebastian Bach (1685) – German composer and musician, a master of Baroque music.
-
Modeste Mussorgsky (1839) – Russian composer known for “Pictures at an Exhibition.”
-
Forrest Mars Sr. (1904) – American businessman who developed M&M’s and Mars bar.
-
Matthew Broderick (1962) – American actor famous for "Ferris Bueller's Day Off."
-
Gary Oldman (1958) – Acclaimed English actor known for roles in “Dracula” and “Darkest Hour.”
Notable Deaths on March 21
-
Thomas Cranmer (1556) – Archbishop of Canterbury, burned at the stake during the reign of Queen Mary I.
-
Robert Preston (1987) – American actor, best known for “The Music Man.”
-
Chuck Barris (2017) – American game show creator and host of “The Gong Show.”
