Throughout history, March 21st has been a day of significant milestones and occurrences. From groundbreaking scientific discoveries to pivotal political moments, the events that took place on this day have left an indelible mark on human history. In this article, we will explore some of the most famous events that occurred on March 21st, delving into their historical context and the lasting impact they have had on the world.
- Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary Closes (1963):
On March 21st, 1963, the infamous Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary in San Francisco Bay closed its doors for good. Known for its isolation and maximum-security measures, Alcatraz was home to some of America’s most notorious criminals, including Al “Scarface” Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly. The prison’s closure followed a 29-year history marred by reports of inhumane conditions, and it has since become a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the darker aspects of the American justice system.
- The New London School Explosion (1937):
One of the deadliest school disasters in American history took place on March 21st, 1937, when a natural gas leak caused an explosion at the New London School in Texas. The tragedy claimed the lives of nearly 300 students and teachers, prompting nationwide outrage and grief. The event spurred significant changes in natural gas safety regulations, leading to the requirement of odorants in natural gas to detect leaks more easily.
- The First Spacewalk (1965):
On March 21st, 1965, Soviet cosmonaut Alexei Leonov made history by becoming the first human to perform a spacewalk. The mission, known as Voskhod 2, saw Leonov exit his spacecraft and float freely in space for 12 minutes, connected only by a tether. This groundbreaking achievement marked a significant milestone in human space exploration and the ongoing space race between the United States and the Soviet Union.
- The Sharpeville Massacre (1960):
A pivotal event in South African history occurred on March 21st, 1960, when a peaceful protest against the apartheid government’s pass laws turned violent. The Sharpeville Massacre saw police open fire on unarmed demonstrators, killing 69 people and injuring over 180. The event drew international condemnation and played a crucial role in garnering global support for the anti-apartheid movement.
- Twitter Co-founder Jack Dorsey Sends the First Tweet (2006):
On March 21st, 2006, Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey sent the first-ever tweet: “just setting up my twttr.” This seemingly innocuous message marked the beginning of a social media revolution that would change the way people across the globe communicate, share information, and engage with one another. Today, Twitter has over 330 million active users and has become an influential platform for politicians, celebrities, and everyday individuals alike.