March 21 has witnessed groundbreaking scientific discoveries, pivotal moments in civil rights, and cultural milestones. These ten events—presented in chronological order—highlight the resilience, innovation, and determination that shape our world. Each event is paired with a unique real quote to inspire reflection and action.
1. The Founding of the Paris Observatory (1667)
On March 21, 1667, construction began on the Paris Observatory, one of the world’s oldest and most influential astronomical institutions.
The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing.
~ Albert Einstein
2. Napoléon Begins the Hundred Days (1815)
On March 21, 1815, Napoléon Bonaparte returned from exile and began his final campaign to reclaim power in France, leading to the Battle of Waterloo.
Never interrupt your enemy when he is making a mistake.
~ Napoléon Bonaparte
3. The Abolition of Slavery in Puerto Rico (1873)
On March 21, 1873, Spain abolished slavery in Puerto Rico, granting freedom to thousands of enslaved people.
Slavery is the next thing to hell.
~ Harriet Tubman
4. The First International Women’s Rights Congress (1908)
On March 21, 1908, the first International Women’s Rights Congress was held in Buenos Aires, Argentina, advocating for gender equality.
There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.
~ Michelle Obama
5. The Massacre in Sharpeville, South Africa (1960)
On March 21, 1960, South African police opened fire on peaceful anti-apartheid protesters in Sharpeville, killing 69 people. This event became a turning point in the struggle against apartheid.
Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.
~ Martin Luther King, Jr.
6. The First Human Space Mission Selection (1961)
On March 21, 1961, the Soviet Union selected Yuri Gagarin as the first human to fly into space, leading to his historic mission on April 12.
I see Earth! It is so beautiful!
~ Yuri Gagarin
7. The U.S. Passes the Equal Rights Amendment (1972)
On March 21, 1972, the United States Senate passed the Equal Rights Amendment, designed to guarantee legal equality regardless of sex.
Human rights are women’s rights, and women’s rights are human rights.
~ Hillary Clinton
8. UNESCO Declares World Poetry Day (1999)
On March 21, 1999, UNESCO declared World Poetry Day to promote the power of poetry in preserving language and culture.
Poetry is when an emotion has found its thought and the thought has found words.
~ Robert Frost
9. Twitter is Founded (2006)
On March 21, 2006, Jack Dorsey sent the first tweet, marking the birth of Twitter and changing digital communication forever.
The advance of technology is based on making it fit in so that you don’t really even notice it.
~ Bill Gates
10. The Largest Climate Change Protest in History (2019)
On March 21, 2019, millions of students and activists around the world participated in the largest climate strike to demand action on global warming.
We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.
~ Native American Proverb
Final Reflections
The events of March 21 show that history is shaped by those who fight for freedom, knowledge, and justice. Whether through scientific discovery, civil rights struggles, or cultural expression, progress is driven by those willing to challenge the status quo.
May we continue to learn, explore, and stand up for what is right, ensuring that the future is shaped by wisdom and courage.
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