In History, Today on April 21

Today we explore events from the year 1509 to the year 2019. Events span the globe, from the countries of France, Brazil, South Vietnam, China, Iraq, Sri Lanka, England, Thailand, Republic of Texas, United States.

1509

London, England

Henry VIII ascended to the throne of England following the death of his father, Henry VII.

1782

Bangkok, Thailand

The city of Rattanakosin, now known as Bangkok, was founded as the capital of the Kingdom of Siam (modern-day Thailand).

1836

Harris County, Republic of Texas

The Battle of San Jacinto took place, resulting in a decisive victory for the Texian Army over Mexican forces, leading to the independence of Texas from Mexico.

1918

Vaux-sur-Somme, France

German fighter ace Manfred von Richthofen, known as the 'Red Baron', was shot down and killed during World War I.

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1960

Brasília, Brazil

Brasília was officially inaugurated as the capital of Brazil, replacing Rio de Janeiro.

1962

Seattle, United States

The Seattle World's Fair, also known as the Century 21 Exposition, opens in Seattle, Washington.

1975

Saigon, South Vietnam

South Vietnamese President Nguyễn Văn Thiệu resigned amid the fall of Saigon during the Vietnam War.

1989

Beijing, China

The Tiananmen Square protests began in Beijing, China, as students gathered to mourn the death of Hu Yaobang and demand political reform.

2003

Baghdad, Iraq

The city of Baghdad fell to U.S. forces during the Iraq War, marking a significant moment in the conflict as the capital city was secured by coalition forces.

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2010

Gulf of Mexico, United States

The Deepwater Horizon oil spill began in the Gulf of Mexico, leading to one of the largest environmental disasters in U.S. history.

2014

Flint, United States

The Flint water crisis began when the city switched its water supply to the Flint River, leading to lead contamination and a public health emergency.

2016

Chanhassen, United States

The iconic musician Prince is found dead at his Paisley Park home and recording studio in Minnesota, leading to an outpouring of grief and tributes worldwide.

2019

Colombo, Sri Lanka

A series of coordinated terrorist bombings occurred in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday, targeting churches and hotels, resulting in over 250 deaths.