February 21 in History: Famous Births, Events, and Deaths

February 21 has witnessed several significant moments that shaped the course of world history. On this day, nations have celebrated cultural milestones, mourned tragic losses, and remembered great leaders. It is also recognized as International Mother Language Day, established by UNESCO to promote linguistic and cultural diversity. Over the centuries, many notable figures in politics, literature, and the arts were born or passed away on this date, leaving a lasting impact on human civilization.

Famous People Born on February 21

1903: Anaïs Nin: French-Cuban-American diarist and writer known for her literary journals and works exploring female psychology.

1917: Lucille Bremer: American film actress and dancer who starred in MGM musicals of the 1940s.

1927: Hubert de Givenchy: French fashion designer and founder of the House of Givenchy, known for dressing Audrey Hepburn.

1933: Nina Simone: American singer, songwriter, and civil rights activist, known as the "High Priestess of Soul."

1946: Alan Rickman: English actor famous for roles in films like "Harry Potter" and "Die Hard."

1955: Kelsey Grammer: American actor and comedian best known for playing Dr. Frasier Crane in "Cheers" and "Frasier."

1962: Chuck Palahniuk: American novelist and journalist, best known for his novel "Fight Club."

1979: Jennifer Love Hewitt: American actress, singer, and producer known for roles in "Ghost Whisperer" and "I Know What You Did Last Summer."

1987: Elliot Page: Canadian actor and producer known for "Juno" and "The Umbrella Academy."

1989: Corbin Bleu: American actor, dancer, and singer, best known for his role in Disney’s "High School Musical" series.

Famous Events on February 21

1848: Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels published The Communist Manifesto, a foundational text in political and economic theory.

1916: The Battle of Verdun began during World War I, becoming one of the longest and bloodiest battles in history.

1947: Edwin H. Land demonstrated the first Polaroid instant camera in New York City.

1952: The Bengali Language Movement reached its peak in Dhaka, East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), where several students were killed — an event later commemorated as International Mother Language Day.

1965: Civil rights leader Malcolm X was assassinated in New York City during a speech at the Audubon Ballroom.

1972: U.S. President Richard Nixon visited China, marking a significant step in improving U.S.–China relations.

1995: Steve Fossett became the first person to fly solo across the Pacific Ocean in a balloon.

2012: The European Space Agency launched the Vega rocket on its maiden flight from French Guiana.

2013: Scientists confirmed the discovery of the remains of King Richard III of England under a parking lot in Leicester.

2018: The U.S. women’s hockey team won Olympic gold, defeating Canada in a dramatic shootout at the PyeongChang Winter Games.

Famous People Who Died on February 21

1677: Baruch Spinoza: Dutch philosopher known for his influential works on ethics and rationalism.

1848: John Quincy Adams: 6th President of the United States and a key figure in American diplomacy and politics.

1910: William Dean Howells: American realist author, literary critic, and editor of “The Atlantic Monthly.”

1965: Malcolm X: Prominent African-American civil rights leader and minister, assassinated in New York City.

1974: John R. Bray: American animator and producer, pioneer of early animated films.

1988: Alice Roosevelt Longworth: American writer and socialite, daughter of U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt.

2004: Les Gray: English musician and lead singer of the glam rock band Mud.

2015: Clark Terry: Legendary American jazz trumpeter and flugelhornist, known for his long association with Duke Ellington.

2019: Stanley Donen: American film director and choreographer, best known for “Singin’ in the Rain.”

2021: Prince Markie Dee: American rapper, producer, and member of the pioneering hip-hop group The Fat Boys.

February 21 holds deep historical and cultural importance across the world. It is a day that honors the sacrifices made for the preservation of language and identity, most notably through the observance of International Mother Language Day. The date also marks several pivotal events in world history, reminding us of humanity’s resilience, creativity, and constant pursuit of progress.

From the philosophical legacy of Baruch Spinoza to the revolutionary voice of Malcolm X, February 21 celebrates the individuals who have shaped our understanding of freedom, equality, and cultural pride. The day serves as a timeless reminder that our words, actions, and ideas can influence generations and continue to shape the future of our global community.