May 21 has witnessed remarkable events throughout history. Join us as we delve into Major Historical Events on May 21 and their influence on the world.
Major Historical Events on May 21- Today in History
Hernando de Soto’s Final Resting Place – 1542 AD
Spanish explorer and conquistador Hernando de Soto, famed for being the first European to discover the Mississippi River, met his end and was laid to rest in the river itself, in the territory now known as Louisiana.
Henri Rousseau’s Vibrant Legacy – 1844 AD
French painter Henri Rousseau, celebrated as the quintessential modern naive artist, was born in Laval. Rousseau’s work is renowned for its vivid colors and intricate details, often depicting lush jungles, wild beasts, and exotic figures.
Bleeding Kansas: The Sack of Lawrence – 1856 AD
During the turbulent period known as Bleeding Kansas, a conflict sparked by the debate over whether Kansas should allow slavery, the town of Lawrence fell victim to a pro-slavery mob. This attack aimed to destroy what was seen as a stronghold of abolitionism.
The Paris Commune and Bloody Week – 1871 AD
The Paris Commune rose in rebellion against the French national government led by Adolphe Thiers, initiating a violent period famously referred to as “Bloody Week.”
Clara Barton and the Red Cross – 1881 AD
Clara Barton established the American Association of the Red Cross, which would later become the American Red Cross, dedicated to providing emergency assistance and disaster relief.
Andrey Sakharov: Scientist and Advocate – 1921 AD
Soviet nuclear physicist and staunch human rights advocate Andrey Sakharov, who was awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace in 1975, was born in Moscow. His work and advocacy left a significant impact on both science and human rights.
Charles Lindbergh’s Historic Flight – 1927 AD
On this day in 1927, American aviator Charles Lindbergh completed the first nonstop solo transatlantic flight. Piloting the Spirit of Saint Louis, he flew from New York to Paris in approximately 33.5 hours, making aviation history.
Amelia Earhart’s Atlantic Triumph – 1932 AD
American aviator Amelia Earhart made history by becoming the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, setting a new milestone in aviation and women’s achievements.
Michelangelo’s Pietà Attacked – 1972 AD
Michelangelo’s masterpiece, the Pietà, depicting the Virgin Mary cradling the body of Christ, suffered severe damage during an attack in St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City.
The Assassination of Rajiv Gandhi – 1991 AD
Indian politician Rajiv Gandhi, who served as Prime Minister from 1984 to 1989, was tragically assassinated in a suicide bombing, marking a dark chapter in India’s political history.
The Prolific Dame Barbara Cartland – 2000 AD
British author Dame Barbara Cartland, famed for her extensive bibliography of over 700 romantic Novels set in the 19th century, passed away at the age of 98, leaving behind a legacy of beloved works.
The Final Curtain for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus – 2017 AD
After years of declining attendance and growing animal rights protests, the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus announced its final performance. In 2023, the circus made a comeback with an animal-free show.
Also Read: Major Historical Events on May 20- Today in History
