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What Happened Today in History on February 21

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

1173 CE, February 21

Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury, is formally canonized as a saint by Pope Alexander III. Becket, also known as Saint Thomas of Canterbury, and Thomas of London, served as Lord Chancellor from 1155 to 1162, and then as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1162 until his murder on December 29, 1170.

1400 CE, February 21

Rebellion of Owain Glyndŵr: Welsh forces under Owain Glyndŵr revolt against English rule in Wales.

1437 CE, February 21

James I of Scotland is assassinated in Perth, Scotland on February 21, 1437, by a group of assassins led by Sir Robert Graham. His death was the result of a conspiracy, and the assassins were later captured and executed.

1613 CE, February 21

The Zemsky Sobor (Assembly of the Land), elects 16 year old, Michael Romanov (Mikhail Fyodorovich Romanov), son of Patriarch Filaret of Moscow, as the new Russian Tsar. He was was crowned on 21 July 21. 1613 Michael's election followed the "Time of Troubles" and ended a period of instability in the country.