Old clock in sand with the words: It Happend in August

View Historical Events by Day: What Happened on August 21 in History?

Explore the historical events that shaped our world on August 21st. From major milestones to cultural achievements, see what happened on this day in history. Dates for earlier events may be approximate.

Aug. 20 Aug. 22

1911 CE, August 21

The Louvre announces the theft of the Mona Lisa. painted by Leonardo da Vinci in 1507. It was recovered two years later in Italy on December 1913. More

1959 CE, August 21

Hawaii is admitted to the union becoming the 50th State.

1983 CE, August 21

Filipino opposition leader Benigno S. Aquino, Jr., was assassinated at the Manila airport while leaving his plane. Public outcry ultimately led to the collapse of the government of Ferdinand E. Marcos and the inauguration of Corazon C. Aquino, widow of the slain man, as president.

2017 CE, August 21

A total solar eclipse, visible across a large portion of the United States, captivates millions of people.

Aug. 20 Aug. 22

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