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1805
Battle of Trafalgar
A British fleet commanded by Admiral Nelson defeated the combined French and Spanish fleets off Spain. Nelson died from wounds sustained during the battle.
History221 years ago
SourceOn This Day
October 21
Discover the events and people that shaped this day in history.
Historical events
1797History229 years agoUSS Constitution is launched
The American frigate USS Constitution was launched in Boston. The ship would later earn the nickname “Old Ironsides” during the War of 1812.
1879Science147 years agoEdison tests a long-lasting incandescent lamp
Thomas Edison and his team tested a carbon-filament electric lamp that burned for over 13 hours, an important step toward practical electric lighting.
1945Society81 years agoFrench women vote in a national election
French women voted in a national parliamentary election for the first time, after gaining the right to vote in 1944.
1959Culture67 years agoGuggenheim Museum opens in New York
The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum opened its landmark spiral building, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, to the public in New York City.
1983Science43 years agoThe metre is defined using the speed of light
The international measurement conference adopted a definition of the metre based on how far light travels in vacuum in 1/299,792,458 of a second.
Famous birthdays
1833193 years ago
Alfred Nobel
Swedish inventor and industrialist who established the Nobel Prizes through his will.
1925101 years ago
Celia Cruz
Cuban-American singer celebrated as the Queen of Salsa, known for her powerful voice and energetic performances.
192997 years ago
Ursula K. Le Guin
American author of influential fantasy and science-fiction books, including A Wizard of Earthsea and The Left Hand of Darkness.
195670 years ago
Carrie Fisher
American actress and writer best known for her portrayal of Princess Leia in the Star Wars films.
Timeline
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