On This Day - October 21
Image source: The GrayVine
Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Let's look back at some of the most significant events in history that happened on this day, starting with...
1520: Magellan Sailed Into the Pacific Ocean
Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan and his fleet reached Cape Virgenes after successfully navigating the treacherous strait that now bears his name. They became the first Europeans to enter the Pacific Ocean, proving it connected to the Atlantic.
1805: Admiral Nelson Died at the Battle of Trafalgar
British Admiral Horatio Nelson led his fleet to a decisive victory against the combined French and Spanish navies off Cape Trafalgar. Though mortally wounded during the battle, Nelson’s triumph ended Napoleon’s hopes of invading Britain and made him a national hero.
1854: Florence Nightingale Headed to the Crimean War
Known as the “Lady with the Lamp,” Nightingale and her team of 38 nurses departed for Scutari to care for wounded British soldiers, forever transforming nursing into a respected profession and advancing medical hygiene.
1918: Margaret Owen Set a World Typing Record
Secretary Margaret Owen achieved a speed record of 170 words per minute—an astonishing feat for the time and a milestone in the evolution of office technology and clerical work.
1944: US Troops Captured Aachen
American forces seized the German city of Aachen, marking the first major German city captured by the Allies during World War II. The victory provided a crucial entry point into western Germany.
1948: The UN Rejected a Soviet Proposal on Nuclear Disarmament
The United Nations General Assembly voted down a Russian plan to eliminate atomic weapons, opting instead to continue oversight through the newly formed Atomic Energy Commission—a decision that reflected early Cold War tensions.
1964: “My Fair Lady” Premiered in New York City
The film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical opened to rave reviews. Starring Audrey Hepburn and Rex Harrison, it later won eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
1966: The Aberfan Disaster Claimed 144 Lives
In South Wales, a coal waste heap collapsed onto Pantglas Junior School, killing 116 children and 28 adults. The tragedy prompted major reforms in industrial safety and environmental oversight.
1980: The Philadelphia Phillies Won Their First World Series
After nearly a century of trying, the Phillies finally captured their first championship by defeating the Kansas City Royals in six games—bringing long-awaited joy to the city’s baseball fans.
Do you remember any of these events? Or do you have more events (historical or not!) you'd like to share with the community? Post them below and let's reminisce together!
