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April 21 in History: Spanish-American War Begins, Red Baron Killed, and Flint Water Crisis Begins

Scott Winters April 21, 2026 0 Comments

Discover what happened on April 21 in history, along with notable events that shaped war, aviation, and public health.

What Happened on April 21 in History?

From the start of an international conflict to the fall of a legendary World War I pilot and a modern public health crisis, April 21 highlights moments that left lasting global and local impacts.

APRIL 21 – TODAY IN HISTORY:

1789 – John Adams was sworn in as the first U.S. Vice President.

1850 – Grand Rapids, MI was incorporated as a city (it became a village back in April 1838).

1856 – The Mississippi River was crossed by a rail train for the first time (between Davenport, IA, and Rock Island, IL).

1862 – Congress established the U.S. Mint in Denver, CO.

1865 – President Abraham Lincoln’s funeral train left Washington, DC.

1892 – The first Buffalo was born in Golden Gate Park.

1895 – Woodville Latham and his sons demonstrated their Panopticon. It was the first movie projector developed in the United States.

1898 – The Spanish-American War began.

1918 – German fighter ace Manfred von Richthofen, “The Red Baron,” was shot down and killed during World War I.

1928 – First U.S. Aircraft show featuring 63 different planes shown by 40 manufacturers in Detroit, MI.

1934 – The “Surgeon’s Photograph”, the most famous photo allegedly showing the Loch Ness Monster, was published in the Daily Mail. In 1999, it is revealed to be a hoax.

1952 – Secretary’s Day (now Administrative Professionals’ Day) was first celebrated.

1959 – Alf Dean caught a 16-foot, 10-inch white shark that weighed 2,664 pounds. At the time it was the largest catch with a rod and reel.

1960 – Dick Clark testified before a congressional committee investigating payola. He admitted that he had a financial interest in 27 percent of the records he played on his show in a period of 28 months.

1962 – The Seattle World’s Fair (Century 21 Exposition) opened. It was the first World’s Fair in the U.S. since World War II.

1965 – The 1964-1965 New York World’s Fair opened for its second and final season.

1972 – Apollo 16 astronauts John Young and Charles Duke explored the surface of the moon.

1982 – Rollie Fingers, of the Milwaukee Brewers, became the first pitcher to record 300 saves.

1984 – In France, it was announced that doctors had found virus believed to cause AIDS.

1986 – Geraldo Rivera opened a vault that belonged to Al Capone at the Lexington Hotel in Chicago, IL. Except for a few empty beer bottles, the vault was empty.

1987 – Special occasion stamps were offered for the first time by the Postal Service. “Happy Birthday” and “Get Well” were among the first to be offered.

1989 – The movie “Field of Dreams” premiered in theaters. The film starred Kevin Costner, Amy Madigan, James Earl Jones, Ray Liotta and Burt Lancaster (in his final role).

1989 – The Game Boy handheld video game device was released in Japan.

1996 – Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls set an NBA record by winning their 72nd game in a season.

1998 – Astronomers announced in Washington that they had discovered possible signs of a new family of planets orbiting a star 220 light-years away.

1998 – While Bill Gates was demonstrating his new Window 98 computer operating system to a convention group in Chicago, IL, the software crashed.

2000 – North Carolina researchers announced that the heart of a 66 million-year-old dinosaur was more like a mammal or bird than that of a reptile.

2000 – The 1998 Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act went into effect.

2009 – UNESCO launched The World Digital Library. The World Digital Library (WDL) is an international digital library operated by UNESCO and the United States Library of Congress.

2014 – Flint, MI switched their water source to the Flint River, beginning the ongoing Flint water crisis which has caused lead poisoning in up to 12,000 people, and 15 deaths from Legionnaires disease, ultimately leading to criminal indictments against 15 people, five of whom have been charged with involuntary manslaughter.

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS ON APRIL 21:

Elaine May – 94 years old (1932) – Actress, comedian, director, and screenwriter

Thomas Kean – 91 years old (1935) – Academic and politician, 48th Governor of New Jersey

Ben Zinn – 89 years old (1937) – Israeli-born American academic and former international soccer player

Sister Helen Prejean – 87 years old (1939) – Nun, activist, and author

Al Bumbry – 79 years old (1947) – Baseball player

Iggy Pop – 79 years old (1947) – Singer-songwriter, producer, and actor

Gary Condit – 78 years old (1948) – Businessman and politician

Patti LuPone – 77 years old (1949) – Actress and singer

Tony Danza – 75 years old (1951) – Actor and producer

Michael Freedman – 75 years old (1951) – Mathematician and academic

Bob Varsha – 75 years old (1951) – Sportscaster

Gerald Early – 74 years old (1952) – Author and academic

James Morrison – 72 years old (1954) – Actor, director, producer, and screenwriter

Phillip Longman – 70 years old (1956) – German-American demographer and journalist

Andie MacDowell – 68 years old (1958) – Model, actress, and producer

Michael Zarnock – 68 years old (1958) – Author

Tim Jacobus – 67 years old (1959) – Illustrator and painter

Fiona Kelleghan – 61 years old (1965) – Academic, critic and librarian

Rob Riggle – 56 years old (1970) – Actor and comedian

Tony Romo – 46 years old (1980) – Football player and announcer

Ricky Berens – 38 years old (1988) – Swimmer

Jencarlos Canela – 38 years old (1988) – Singer-songwriter and actor

Joc Pederson – 34 years old (1992) – Baseball player

Jarrett Allen – 28 years old (1998) – Basketball player

DAYS OF THE YEAR FOR APRIL 21:

National Tea Day: Just because we dumped all that tea in the harbor, doesn’t mean we don’t enjoy the relaxing, warm drink. Visit a Fest-Tea-Val, or simply enjoy a steaming mug of tea.
National Bunion Day: Feet are something that people often take for granted – until something goes wrong with them! With approximately 65 millions Americans impacted by the pain and discomfort caused by bunions, it just makes sense that there would be a day to promote and raise awareness about this foot condition. Join in...
World Creativity and Innovation Day: View the world in a different way on World Creativity and Innovation Day, by thinking about creative solutions to a problem or engaging with other thinkers and creators.
National Chocolate Covered Cashews Day: Everyone knows about chocolate covered peanuts, but surely the creamy sweetness of the cashew makes the ideal nut base for this chocolatey treat.
National Bulldogs Are Beautiful Day: Shower your bulldog with love and affection, meet other bulldog owners, and post pictures of your best friend to prove to everyone that Bulldogs are Beautiful.
World Curlew Day: Graceful shorebirds, facing threats, symbolize the delicate balance of ecosystems, urging awareness for their preservation and conservation.
National Rendering Day: National Rendering Day shines a light on an industry that often goes unnoticed but plays a big role in sustainability. Instead of letting leftover animal materials and used cooking oil go to waste, rendering turns them into useful products. These byproducts become pet food, renewable fuels, and even ingredients for...
Tiradentes Day: Tiradentes Day is a special time in Brazil to honor the memory of Joaquim José da Silva Xavier, a figure who symbolized the struggle against colonial rule. Known as Tiradentes, or "tooth-puller" because of his work as a dentist, he led a group aiming to free Brazil from Portuguese control...
National Yellow Bat Day: Responsible for analyzing intercepted communications, this intelligence unit supported US Army operations during the Vietnam conflict.
National Pet CBD Day: National Pet CBD Day exists to educate pet owners about using CBD safely and wisely for animal wellness. It highlights how hemp-derived cannabidiol may ease pain, reduce anxiety, support mobility, and boost appetite in pets. Experts stress the importance of choosing pet-specific, lab-tested, THC‑free products. They also recommend consulting veterinarians before...
National Kindergarten Day: Join your child at kindergarten by volunteering and engaging with kids of this adorable age. Don’t have kids? Let your inner kid out by having a snack taking a nap.
Big Word Day: Elevating language with substantial expressions, conveying ideas with impactful verbiage for enriched communication and comprehension.
National Surprise Drug Test Day: National Surprise Drug Test Day is a unique observance that adds an element of suspense to everyday life. On this day, many workplaces conduct unannounced drug tests to promote a drug-free environment. The surprise aspect keeps employees vigilant, ensuring they adhere to company policies regarding drug use. This practice not...
Keep Off the Grass Day: Keep Off the Grass Day is a lively reminder to appreciate and protect green spaces, especially the everyday lawn. Grass can look tough, but it is a living carpet with shallow roots, delicate blades, and an ongoing need for air, water, and sunlight. This day spotlights how quickly a yard...
International Loch Ness Monster Day: The modern legend of the Loch Ness monster, known by Scottish locals as “Nessie”, has been described as a shy, quiet creature who might have surprised or frightened folks but who has never harmed anyone. That gentler interpretation is part of the charm. A mysterious animal that prefers privacy fits...
National Chickpea Day: National Chickpea Day is all about celebrating one small bean with big impact. Chickpeas star in dishes around the world, from crispy snacks to creamy dips. They bring flavor, texture, and color to every meal they touch. This special day brings attention to their role in cooking and how they...
Tuna Rights Day: Tuna Rights Day raises awareness about protecting one of the most overfished species in our oceans. Tuna aren’t just another seafood option—they’re key players in keeping marine ecosystems healthy. Their numbers have dropped sharply because of intense commercial fishing. This day reminds us that the choices we make affect the...
Battle of San Jacinto: The Battle of San Jacinto stands out as one of those lightning-strike moments in history when patience, timing, and nerve collide. Texan soldiers, tired from weeks of retreat and hardship, suddenly flipped the script on a Mexican force that believed the fight was all but settled. What followed was a...
Advisor Appreciation Day: You know that feeling of being completely lost in a maze of choices? That’s where advisors step in. Advisor Appreciation Day celebrates the people who help students make sense of it all. These guides offer more than advice: they provide direction when the path feels unclear, and they do it...
Thank You for Libraries Day: Thank you for Libraries Day honors the places where ideas grow. It recognizes how libraries offer us free books, digital content, and expert help. Many people rely on library staff to find the exact information they need or to dive into new topics. Communities gather there, making libraries feel like...
Radonitsa: Radonitsa, often called the "Day of Rejoicing," holds a special place in Belarusian culture. It is a day dedicated to remembering loved ones who have passed away. How to Observe Radonitsa Celebrating Radonitsa can be a unique experience filled with traditions and a touch of joyful remembrance. Here are a few...
National Pediatric Transplant Week: Each year, thousands of children across the world benefit from the life-saving medical intervention that comes through organ donation. But the list of those in need of organ donors is long and these younger patients often have to wait for a great deal of time for matches because of complex...
Money Smart Week: Being smart with money isn't just about saving; it's also about making informed decisions and enjoying the process. Money Smart Week offers the perfect opportunity to dive into financial literacy and reconsider financial habits. In its essence, Money Smart Week is a lively event held annually to boost financial literacy...
Coin Week: Begin or grow your coin collection, learn about how countries’ mints reflect their history, or join a coin club or even local competition during Coin Week.
FOP Awareness Month: Raising awareness for a rare condition, efforts unite to support those facing the challenges of Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva.
Lesbian Visibility Week: To build awareness, create safe and healthy work environments, ‘normalize’ relationships, and allow lesbian voices to be heard, Lesbian Visibility Week provides various opportunities to build a society of inclusion. This event works to promote LGBTQIA women along with non-binary people in every field, from every generation, to every country...
National Princess Week: When you think of a princess, images of elegance, courage, and kindness come to mind. National Princess Week celebrates these traits, inviting everyone to embrace their inner royalty. This special week, started by Julie Andrews, Disney, and Target, is a chance to enjoy the magic and charm associated with princesses...
Cleaning for a Reason Week: Cleaning for a Reason Week is a special time when cleaning companies, donors, and communities come together to support people going through cancer treatment. During this week, the goal is to bring in more cleaning partners, raise money, and help more households with free cleaning services. Volunteers and professional cleaners pitch...
Feet Week: Happy feet make a happy person. Proper foot care involves regular washing, trimming nails, wearing comfortable shoes, and keeping them dry. Treat your feet well and they will take you places!
National Volunteer Week: Contributing time and effort, volunteering fosters positive change, enriching lives, and creating a ripple of goodwill in communities.
Administrative Professionals Week: In offices around the globe, desks become stages of gratitude during Administrative Professionals Week. Teams come together, celebrating those who keep the gears turning. Imagine the scene: colorful bouquets and heartfelt notes replace reports and spreadsheets. Managers pause meetings to say "thank you," acknowledging the often unseen dedication of their...
National Park Week: Say hello to beautiful plants, native wildlife, natural landscapes, and unique terrains because it’s time to celebrate and enjoy National Park Week! History of National Park Week The first National Park Week was celebrated in 1991 when it was declared by US President George H.W. Bush to honor the 75th anniversary...
Every Kid Healthy Week: Nurturing vibrant habits, fostering active play, and embracing wholesome choices, helping children discover the joy of balanced living.
Animal Cruelty / Human Violence Awareness Week: Animal Cruelty / Human Violence Awareness Week is observed annually to shed light on the undeniable connection between abusing animals and harming humans. This observance week creates awareness of the need to understand the intersectional nature of these issues and for societal change to end the cruelty. It also promotes education...
Global Days of Action on Military Spending: The Global Days of Action on Military Spending is a lively global campaign that invites people everywhere to rethink how public funds are used. It urges governments to shift resources from arms to real security, like health, education, and clean energy. When new military spending data arrives, advocates use the moment...
National Sky Awareness Week: Humans go through life each day looking at the buildings, cars, computer screens, and other people around them, but it seems like a rare event that they will spend time being aware of the sky. National Sky Awareness Week seeks to remind people of all ages that there is something interesting...
National Work Zone Awareness Week: Warmer weather in the spring is a sign of beautiful things like green grass, lovely flowers and – road construction?! Okay. So, maybe road construction isn’t everyone’s favorite thing. But it is an important job that keeps the highways and roads up to date so everyone can get where they need...
National Green Week: National Green Week is an exciting initiative that brings attention to the importance of environmental sustainability. Schools and organizations across the country use this week to engage students in activities that promote greener living. The event aims to inspire young minds to adopt eco-friendly habits that can make a lasting...
Health Information Professionals Week: Health Information Professionals Week is a celebration that honors the vital role of health information professionals in healthcare. These professionals ensure that patient data is accurate, secure, and accessible, supporting quality care and efficient healthcare operations. They work behind the scenes, managing patient records and data systems, which are crucial for...