This day in history: 21 february

Europa

• 1804: The world’s first self-propelling steam locomotive made its debut at the Pen-y-Darren Ironworks in Wales, marking a milestone in the Industrial Revolution and transportation history.
• 1848: Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels published The Communist Manifesto in London, a foundational text for socialist and communist movements globally.
• 1431: The trial of Joan of Arc began in Rouen, France, a pivotal moment in European medieval history.
• 1440: The Prussian Confederation was formed, an alliance of cities and nobles in Prussia seeking independence from the Teutonic Order.
• 1797: French forces invaded Britain at Fishguard, in what is sometimes called the “last invasion of Britain.” The invasion was quickly repelled.
• 1808: The Finnish War began as Russian troops crossed into Sweden at Abborfors, leading to Sweden’s loss of Finland to Russia.
• 1916: The Battle of Verdun, one of World War I’s longest and bloodiest battles, began in France.
• First telephone book issued in 1878 in Connecticut, USA, and the design of the peace symbol by Gerald Holtom in 1958 in the UK, both with global impact.
• Local European events: February 21 often falls within the period of winter festivals, carnivals, and cultural celebrations across Europe, such as the Kaiserwinkl Magic Winter Night of Lights in Austria and various music and art festivals in February.

America

• 1965: Assassination of Malcolm X
  Malcolm X, a prominent African American minister and activist known for advocating Black nationalism and racial pride in the United States, was assassinated on this day in New York City. His death had a profound impact on the civil rights movement and he remains an influential figure in American history.
• 1878: First Telephone Book Issued
  The world’s first telephone directory was published in New Haven, Connecticut. This single piece of cardboard listed 50 numbers, marking a milestone in communication technology.
• 1842: First U.S. Patent for Sewing Machine
  John Greenough was granted the first U.S. patent for the sewing machine, an invention that revolutionized the textile industry.
• 1948: NASCAR Incorporated
  The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) was officially incorporated, shaping the future of American motorsports.
• 1947: First Demonstration of the Polaroid Land Camera
  Edwin Land demonstrated the first instant camera, the Polaroid Land Camera, in New York City, introducing instant photography to the public.
• 1885: Washington Monument Dedicated
  The newly completed Washington Monument was dedicated in Washington, D.C., becoming a national symbol.
• 1828: First Issue of the Cherokee Phoenix
  The Cherokee Phoenix, the first periodical to use the Cherokee syllabary, was published, representing a milestone in Native American press and literacy.

Asia

• Historical Event: On February 21, 1952, students and activists in Dhaka protested for the recognition of Bangla as a national language. Police opened fire, killing several protesters, including Abdus Salam, Abul Barkat, Rafiq Uddin Ahmed, Abdul Jabbar, and Shafiur Rahman. This event is unique in history for the sacrifice made in defense of linguistic and cultural rights.
• On February 21, 1972, U.S. President Richard Nixon arrived in Beijing, becoming the first American president to visit the People’s Republic of China since its founding in 1949.
• World War II Events (Southeast Asia)
• February 21, 1942: During the Japanese occupation of Southeast Asia, the British 7th Armoured Brigade arrived in Rangoon (now Yangon), Burma (now Myanmar), as part of the Allied defense against Japanese advances. Context: This period saw intense military campaigns across Asia, including the fall of Singapore and the beginning of the Sook Ching massacre in Singapore.
• Recent Events
  February 21, 2023: The Bangladeshi government shut down the main opposition party’s only newspaper, raising concerns about press freedoms in the country.
• 1845 (Philippines): The French agreed to pay for the occupation of Basilan, an island in the southern Philippines, reflecting the region’s colonial history.

Africa

• Battle of Wayna Daga (1543, Ethiopia)
  On February 21, 1543, the Battle of Wayna Daga took place near Lake Tana in Ethiopia. Ethiopian forces, with Portuguese support, defeated the invading Muslim army led by Ahmad ibn Ibrahim al-Ghazi (also known as Ahmed Gragn or “the Conqueror”), who was killed in the battle. This victory was crucial in preserving Ethiopia’s independence and Christian heritage against expanding Muslim power in the region.
• International Mother Language Day
  International Mother Language Day is observed annually on February 21. While its origins are in the Bengali Language Movement in South Asia, it has become a United Nations observance celebrated across Africa. The day emphasizes the preservation and protection of all languages, promoting unity in diversity and the importance of multilingualism on the continent.
• Armed Forces Day (South Africa)
  February 21 is Armed Forces Day in South Africa, commemorating the sinking of the SS Mendi in 1917 during World War I, in which over 600 South African troops, mainly black soldiers, lost their lives. The day honors the sacrifices and contributions of South Africa’s armed forces.
• Notable African Inventions
  On February 21, 1961, Otis Boykin, an African American inventor, patented an improved electrical resistor, an innovation that contributed significantly to electronics and is celebrated as part of the achievements of the African diaspora.
• Recent Political Events
  February 21 has also seen important political milestones, such as coups and government changes in various African countries, including Lesotho.