🗓️ On This Day - July 21st
If you’re in the upper hemisphere, you’re right in the middle of summer now – so why are you looking at a screen? Far be it for us to tell you what you should do with your sunny days – we’ve lined up some fantastic facts and insights about July 21st, a day that seems just like any other… or does it?
On this day
The Earth shook in Crete!
In 365 AD, the Crete earthquake, one of the largest recorded earthquakes in history, struck the Eastern Mediterranean region. It caused widespread destruction and deaths.
The first major battle of the US Civil War took place
In 1861, the first Battle of Bull was fought near Manassas, Virginia. It ended in a Confederate victory, but as we all know by now, the Union would win the war.
The Trans-Siberian railway was completed.
In 1904, the Trans-Siberian railway was completed. It took 13 years to create the lengthy rail route, which is said to measure around 5,772 miles long (that’s around 9,289 km)! It’s thought that riding this railway from one end of Russia to the other would take you around a week!
Erden Eruç made history!
In 2012, Erden Eruç completed the first solo human-powered circumnavigation of the globe! He did so by rowing, cycling, and hiking over a span of five years and 11 days! Now that is dedication – and a real-life Phileas Fogg, no less!
Special Days Falling on July 21st
You didn’t think we’d only make you learn dates and names did you? July 21st is also about celebrating, and here are some of the most interesting holidays being marked right now.
Belgium Independence Day
Each July 21st, Belgium celebrates its ceremonious independence from the Netherlands. This occasion marks the country’s first official monarchy, too, as it looks back on the crowning of King Leopold I, who took oath back in 1831. The day became recognized in Belgian law as of 1890, and it’s stuck ever since!
Guam Liberation Day
Today also happens to be a big day for independence over in Guam, only this time, it celebrates the separation from Japanese forces. Guam fell to Japanese invaders as of World War II, and on this day, its citizens remember those who fell in the associated conflict. The country finally claimed its liberty as of 1944, and every July 21st since then, the occasion’s been marked with parties, festivals, and parades.
Racial Harmony Day
This is specifically a holiday celebrated in Singapore, but it’s one we can all take lessons from! Singapore marks July 21st as a day to come together and celebrate multiculturalism. It’s also a great occasion for citizens to learn more about each other’s roots and cultures, and to strengthen bonds. The day was first adopted and marked to help teach young people about diversity acceptance, particularly after the devastating race riots in Singapore back in 1964. The date is marked in the hope such atrocities never happen again.
This page was last modified on August 4, 2024. Suggest an edit
This month in history
The very first US Independence Day was celebrated! In 1796, the first celebrations took place, and the occasion has been marked in the US every year since! It’s a day for family, friends, and citizens of the nation to come together, and celebrate all that is great about the US, and to remember the nation’s many roots.
Famous Birthdays on July 21st
If you were born on July 21st…
…you’re a Cancer! You are a kind, nurturing, and loyal person. But, you can also have your faults, such as being a bit too overly-sensitive at times! But, your sensitivity is also one of your best qualities. Find out more from our Cancer facts page!
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