August 21st: Historical Events, Traditions, and Calendar Facts

August 21st is a date marked by pivotal moments in world history, cultural celebrations, and significant scientific achievements. In this article, we’ll explore August 21st in various calendars, traditions and observances, and the major historical events and famous birthdays that make this day noteworthy.

August 21st in Different Calendars

• Gregorian Calendar – August 21st is the 233rd day of the year (234th in leap years), with 132 days remaining.

• Julian Calendar – Corresponds to August 8th in the Julian calendar.

• Hebrew Calendar – Falls in Av or Elul, depending on the year.

• Islamic Calendar – Varies each year and can occur in Muharram or Safar.

Traditions and Observances on August 21st

Senior Citizens Day (United States)

August 21st is recognized as National Senior Citizens Day in the United States. Established by President Ronald Reagan in 1988, this day honors the contributions of older adults to society and promotes awareness about issues affecting senior citizens.

Ninoy Aquino Day (Philippines)

This day commemorates Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., a key figure in the Philippine opposition movement, who was assassinated on August 21, 1983. His death became a catalyst for the People Power Revolution that restored democracy in the Philippines.

Major Historical Events on August 21st

1192 – Treaty of Jaffa Signed

This treaty between Richard the Lionheart and Saladin ended the Third Crusade, securing access for Christian pilgrims to Jerusalem while leaving the city under Muslim control.

1791 – Start of the Haitian Revolution

A massive slave uprising began in Saint-Domingue (modern-day Haiti), ultimately leading to the creation of the first independent Black republic in the world and the abolition of slavery in Haiti.

1831 – Nat Turner’s Rebellion

Nat Turner led one of the most significant slave rebellions in U.S. history in Virginia. The uprising heightened tensions over slavery and had lasting social and political consequences.

1888 – William Burroughs Patents the Adding Machine

American inventor William S. Burroughs received a patent for his adding machine, revolutionizing business accounting and paving the way for modern calculators.

1911 – Mona Lisa Stolen from the Louvre

The famous painting by Leonardo da Vinci was stolen from the Louvre Museum in Paris. It was recovered in 1913 and remains one of the world’s most iconic artworks.

1914 – Battle of Charleroi

During World War I, German and French forces clashed near the River Sambre in Belgium in one of the early major battles of the war.

1940 – Leon Trotsky Dies

After being attacked with an ice axe on August 20, exiled Russian revolutionary Leon Trotsky died in Mexico City. His assassination was orchestrated by Soviet agents under Stalin’s orders.

1959 – Hawaii Becomes the 50th U.S. State

On this day, Hawaii officially joined the United States as the 50th state, completing the union as we know it today.

1968 – Warsaw Pact Forces Occupy Czechoslovakia

The invasion of Czechoslovakia by Soviet-led forces began late on August 20 and continued into August 21, crushing the Prague Spring reforms.

1983 – Assassination of Benigno Aquino Jr.

The Filipino opposition leader was shot and killed at Manila International Airport upon returning from exile. His assassination galvanized public opposition to Ferdinand Marcos’ regime.

2017 – Total Solar Eclipse Over the United States

On August 21, 2017, a total solar eclipse was visible across the continental U.S., the first coast-to-coast total eclipse in nearly a century. Millions watched this rare astronomical event.

Famous Birthdays on August 21st

• William Murdoch (1754) – Scottish engineer and inventor, pioneer of gas lighting.

• Count Basie (1904) – American jazz musician, composer, and bandleader.

• Wilt Chamberlain (1936) – Legendary American basketball player, Hall of Famer.

• Kenny Rogers (1938) – American singer and songwriter.

• Usain Bolt (1986) – Jamaican sprinter, world record holder in the 100m and 200m.

Why August 21st Matters

From revolutions that changed the world to scientific innovations and cultural milestones, August 21st is a day rich with history and significance. It reminds us of humanity’s struggles for freedom, progress, and discovery.

✅ Explore More Historical Dates

Check out our full On This Day series for fascinating facts about every day of the year!

If you enjoyed this article, share it, leave a comment, and subscribe for more educational content.

No Events