September 21 Events in History

September 21 has been a day of significant historical events, shaping the world in various ways.

From the establishment of powerful kingdoms and new republics to milestones in aviation and literature, this date marks moments of profound transformation.

This article explores 20 notable events that occurred on September 21, highlighting their historical importance and lasting legacy.

September 21st – On this Day in History

1170 – The Kingdom of Poland is Established

The establishment of the Kingdom of Poland in 1170 marked a pivotal moment in Polish history. This period saw the unification of various fragmented duchies and principalities under a single political entity, signaling the emergence of Poland as a significant power in medieval Europe.

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The process of unification had begun earlier, with Bolesław I the Brave being crowned as the first king in 1025. By 1170, Poland had solidified its status as a unified kingdom, laying the groundwork for future developments in Polish statehood and national identity. This era set the stage for Poland’s rise in influence and stability in the region.

1327 – Edward II of England is Murdered at Berkeley Castle

Edward II of England

The murder of Edward II of England on September 21, 1327, at Berkeley Castle, marked a dramatic end to a troubled reign. Edward II’s tenure as king was fraught with military defeats, political turmoil, and internal strife, culminating in his deposition by his wife, Queen Isabella, and her ally, Roger Mortimer.

Imprisoned and ultimately killed under mysterious circumstances, Edward’s death symbolized the severe internal conflicts within the English monarchy. His demise paved the way for his son, Edward III, to ascend the throne, ushering in a new era characterized by military successes and a revitalized monarchy.

1435 – Treaty of Arras is Signed

The Treaty of Arras, signed on September 21, 1435, was a significant diplomatic achievement that altered the course of the Hundred Years’ War. This agreement marked the end of the alliance between the Burgundians and the English, significantly shifting the balance of power towards the French.

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Negotiated between King Charles VII of France and Duke Philip the Good of Burgundy, the treaty facilitated a reconciliation that strengthened the French position in the protracted conflict. The Treaty of Arras played a crucial role in the eventual French victory and the restoration of stability and unity within the French kingdom.

1451 – Cardinal Nicholas of Cusa Orders the Jews of Arnhem, Netherlands, to Wear a Badge

In 1451, Cardinal Nicholas of Cusa issued an order requiring the Jews of Arnhem in the Netherlands to wear a distinguishing badge. This decree was part of a broader trend of anti-Semitic policies prevalent in medieval Europe, aimed at segregating and identifying Jewish communities.

The implementation of such measures often led to increased discrimination, marginalization, and persecution of Jews. The order reflected the widespread intolerance of the period and had significant social and cultural implications, contributing to the historical challenges faced by Jewish populations in Europe.

1745 – A Peace Treaty Between the Qing Dynasty and the Dzungar Khanate is Signed

The signing of a peace treaty between the Qing Dynasty and the Dzungar Khanate in 1745 was a landmark event in East Asian history. Under the leadership of Emperor Qianlong, the Qing Dynasty sought to expand its influence and secure its borders.

The treaty marked the end of a prolonged and brutal conflict with the Dzungars, a formidable Mongol nomadic group. The Qing victory and subsequent treaty led to the incorporation of vast territories in Central Asia into the Qing Empire, significantly altering the political landscape of the region and enhancing the Qing Dynasty’s power and territorial reach.

1780 – Benedict Arnold Gives British Major John André Plans to West Point

Treason of Benedict Arnold

On September 21, 1780, American General Benedict Arnold committed one of the most infamous acts of treason in United States history by handing over plans of West Point to British Major John André.

Arnold, frustrated by his lack of recognition and financial reward from the Continental Army, conspired with the British to deliver the strategic American fort at West Point, New York, into their hands.

The plot was discovered when André was captured with the plans hidden in his boot. Arnold fled to British lines, and André was executed as a spy. This act of betrayal had a profound impact on American morale and the course of the Revolutionary War.

1792 – The National Convention Declares France a Republic and Abolishes the Monarchy

September 21, 1792, was a momentous day in French history, as the National Convention declared France a republic and formally abolished the monarchy. This decision came amid the turbulent events of the French Revolution, following the overthrow of King Louis XVI.

The establishment of the First French Republic marked a radical shift in the nation’s governance, promoting ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity.

The abolition of the monarchy signaled the end of centuries-old feudal structures and the beginning of a new era characterized by democratic principles and civic rights. This proclamation had far-reaching implications, influencing political developments in Europe and beyond.

1827 – Joseph Smith Claims to Have Found the Golden Plates

On September 21, 1827, Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, claimed to have found the golden plates, which he said were shown to him by the Angel Moroni. According to Smith, these plates contained the writings that would later be translated and published as the Book of Mormon.

This event is foundational in the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and is considered a divine revelation by its followers. The purported discovery and translation of the golden plates played a crucial role in the establishment and expansion of the LDS Church, significantly impacting religious history in America.

1843 – John Williams Wilson Takes Possession of the Strait of Magellan on Behalf of Chile

On September 21, 1843, John Williams Wilson, a British-Chilean naval officer, formally took possession of the Strait of Magellan on behalf of the newly independent Chilean government. This strategic waterway, which separates mainland South America from Tierra del Fuego, was crucial for maritime navigation between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

By asserting control over the Strait of Magellan, Chile aimed to secure its territorial claims and enhance its geopolitical influence in the region. This move was significant for Chile’s national sovereignty and played a vital role in the country’s maritime strategy and economic development.

1860 – Second Opium War: An Anglo-French Force Defeats Chinese Troops at the Battle of Palikao

Battle of Palikao

The Battle of Palikao, fought on September 21, 1860, was a decisive conflict during the Second Opium War, where an Anglo-French force defeated Chinese troops. The battle took place near Beijing and was part of the broader efforts by Western powers to enforce their trade interests in China.

The overwhelming victory of the Anglo-French forces led to the capture of Beijing and the eventual signing of the Convention of Peking, which imposed harsh terms on the Qing Dynasty.

These terms included the cession of territory, indemnities, and the legalization of the opium trade. The battle and subsequent treaty significantly weakened the Qing Dynasty and increased Western influence in China, marking a critical moment in the country’s modern history.

1897 – The “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus” Editorial is Published in the New York Sun

On September 21, 1897, the New York Sun published the now-famous editorial “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus.” Written by Francis Pharcellus Church, the editorial was a response to a letter from eight-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon, who had asked whether Santa Claus was real.

Church’s eloquent and heartfelt reply affirmed the existence of Santa Claus as a symbol of hope, generosity, and the joy of childhood. The editorial became one of the most reprinted newspaper editorials in the English language and has since been cherished as a timeless message of belief and wonder, embodying the spirit of Christmas.

1915 – Cecil Chubb Buys English Prehistoric Monument Stonehenge at an Auction

On September 21, 1915, Cecil Chubb purchased the ancient monument of Stonehenge at an auction for £6,600. Chubb, a barrister and local resident, originally bought Stonehenge as a gift for his wife, though it is said she was not particularly pleased with it.

Recognizing its historical significance, Chubb later donated Stonehenge to the British government in 1918, with conditions to ensure public access and preservation.

This act of philanthropy played a crucial role in the conservation of one of the world’s most famous prehistoric sites, allowing it to be studied, appreciated, and enjoyed by future generations.

1937 – J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit” is Published

On September 21, 1937, J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved fantasy novel “The Hobbit” was published. This book, subtitled “There and Back Again,” introduced readers to the richly imagined world of Middle-earth and the adventures of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who embarks on an epic quest.

“The Hobbit” was immediately popular and critically acclaimed, setting the stage for Tolkien’s later works, including “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy.

The novel’s publication marked a significant moment in literary history, contributing to the establishment of the modern fantasy genre and influencing countless authors and readers worldwide.

1939 – Romanian Prime Minister Armand Călinescu is Assassinated by the Iron Guard

On September 21, 1939, Romanian Prime Minister Armand Călinescu was assassinated by members of the Iron Guard, a fascist paramilitary organization. Călinescu had been a staunch opponent of the Iron Guard and had taken strong measures to suppress its activities.

His assassination was a dramatic and violent response to his policies, carried out in broad daylight in Bucharest. The murder of Călinescu plunged Romania into political turmoil and highlighted the intense ideological conflicts within the country.

The Iron Guard’s act of terror was part of a broader pattern of violence and instability that characterized Romanian politics in the years leading up to World War II.

1942 – The B-29 Superfortress Makes its Maiden Flight

Boeing B-29 Superfortress

On September 21, 1942, the Boeing B-29 Superfortress, one of the most advanced bombers of World War II, made its maiden flight. The B-29 was a state-of-the-art aircraft featuring pressurized cabins, remote-controlled gun turrets, and a sophisticated bombing system.

Its development was a significant technological achievement, intended to provide the United States with a long-range bomber capable of striking targets across vast distances.

The B-29 played a crucial role in the Pacific Theater, including the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The aircraft’s debut marked a pivotal moment in military aviation history, showcasing advancements that would influence post-war aviation design and strategy.

1949 – The People’s Republic of China is Proclaimed by Mao Zedong

On September 21, 1949, Mao Zedong formally proclaimed the establishment of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) after years of civil war between the Communist Party of China and the Nationalist Kuomintang.

This historic announcement marked the end of the Chinese Civil War and the beginning of Communist rule in China. The PRC’s establishment represented a major shift in the global political landscape, as China adopted Marxist-Leninist principles and aligned itself with the Soviet Union during the early Cold War period.

Mao’s declaration set the stage for profound social, economic, and political changes that would transform China into a major world power.

1964 – Malta Gains its Independence from the United Kingdom

On September 21, 1964, Malta officially gained independence from the United Kingdom, ending 164 years of British colonial rule. The island nation, strategically located in the Mediterranean, had been a significant naval base for the British Empire.

Independence was achieved following a constitutional referendum in 1964, where the majority of Maltese people voted in favor of self-governance.

The new independent state retained membership in the Commonwealth of Nations and adopted a parliamentary system of government. Malta’s independence marked the beginning of a new chapter in its history, allowing it to pursue its own economic and political path while maintaining strong ties with the UK and other nations.

1971 – Bahrain, Bhutan, and Qatar Join the United Nations

On September 21, 1971, three countries—Bahrain, Bhutan, and Qatar—were admitted as members of the United Nations. This expansion of the UN membership was significant, reflecting the growing recognition of newly independent states in the international community.

Bahrain and Qatar had recently gained independence from British protection, while Bhutan had maintained its sovereignty and sought to enhance its international presence.

Joining the UN provided these countries with a platform to participate in global diplomacy, contribute to international peace and security, and promote their national interests. Their membership underscored the UN’s role in supporting the self-determination and development of emerging nations.

1981 – Belize is Granted Full Independence from the United Kingdom

On September 21, 1981, Belize achieved full independence from the United Kingdom, becoming the last British colony on the American mainland to gain independence. Formerly known as British Honduras, Belize’s path to independence involved extensive negotiations and preparations to ensure a smooth transition.

The new nation retained its membership in the Commonwealth and adopted a parliamentary democracy. Independence allowed Belize to control its own affairs, develop its economy, and establish its identity on the world stage. The event was celebrated with national pride and marked a significant milestone in the decolonization of the Americas.

1991 – Armenia is Granted Independence from the Soviet Union

On September 21, 1991, Armenia declared its independence from the Soviet Union, following a national referendum in which the overwhelming majority of Armenians voted for independence. This declaration was part of the larger dissolution of the Soviet Union, as various republics sought autonomy and sovereignty.

Armenia’s independence ended nearly seven decades of Soviet rule and ushered in a new era of self-governance. The newly independent Armenia faced significant challenges, including economic restructuring, political reforms, and the ongoing conflict with Azerbaijan over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Despite these difficulties, Armenia’s independence marked a crucial step in re-establishing its national identity and pursuing its aspirations as a sovereign state.