March 21 in History: Twitter Founded, Alcatraz Closes, and Taco Bell Opens

Scott Winters March 21, 2026 0 Comments

Discover what happened on March 21 in history, along with notable celebrity birthdays and fun Days of the Year to celebrate.

What Happened on March 21 in History?

Important events on this day include the founding of Twitter, the closing of Alcatraz prison, and the opening of the very first Taco Bell restaurant.

MARCH 21 – TODAY IN HISTORY:

1788 – Almost the entire city of New Orleans, LA, was destroyed by fire. 856 buildings were destroyed.

1790 – Thomas Jefferson reported to President George Washington as the new Secretary of State.

1851 – Yosemite Valley was discovered in California.

1859 – In Philadelphia, PA, the first Zoological Society was incorporated.

1906 – Ohio passed a law that prohibited hazing by fraternities after two fatalities.

1908 – A passenger was carried in a bi-plane for the first time by Henri Farman of France.

1910 – The Senate granted ex-President Theodore Roosevelt a yearly pension of $10,000.

1925 – The state of Tennessee enacted the Butler Act. It was a law that made it a crime for a teacher in any state-supported public school to teach any theory that was in contradiction to the Bible’s account of man’s creation.

1928 – President Calvin Coolidge gave the Congressional Medal of Honor to Charles Lindbergh for his first trans-Atlantic flight.

1939 – The song “God Bless America” was recorded by Kate Smith.

1946 – The Los Angeles Rams signed Kenny Washington. Washington was the first black player to join a National Football League team since 1933.

1953 – The Lake Michigan car ferry, the S.S. Badger, made its first big lake crossing (from Ludington, MI to Manitowoc, WI). The S.S. Badger is still in operation.

1962 – Glen Bell opened the very first Taco Bell restaurant in Downing, CA.

1963 – Alcatraz Island, the federal penitentiary in San Francisco Bay, CA, closed.

1965 – NASA launched Ranger 9, the last in a series of unmanned lunar explorations.

1965 – More than 3,000 civil rights demonstrators, led by the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., began a march from Selma to Montgomery, AL.

1966 – In New York, NY, demolition work began to clear thirteen square blocks for the construction of the original World Trade Center.

1970 – The first Earth Day proclamation was issued by the Major of San Francisco, CA, Joseph Alioto.

1972 – The Supreme Court ruled that states could not require one year of residency for voting eligibility.

1976 – Singer Claudine Longet, formerly the wife of Andy Williams, shot her boyfriend, world skiing champion Spider Sabich. Sabich had tried to throw her and her three children out of his house. Longet was arrested for manslaughter.

1980 – President Jimmy Carter announced to the U.S. Olympic Team that they would not participate in the 1980 Summer Games in Moscow as a boycott against Soviet intervention in Afghanistan.

1980 – On the TV show “Dallas”, Larry Hagman’s character, J.R. Ewing, was shot, which led to eight months of speculation over “Who Shot J.R.?”.

1982 – The movie “Annie” opened in theaters.

1984 – Part of Central Park in New York, NY, was renamed Strawberry Fields in honor of John Lennon.

1989 – Dick Clark announced that after 33 years he would no longer be hosting the show “American Bandstand”.

1989 – “Sports Illustrated” reported allegations tying baseball player Pete Rose to baseball gambling.

1990 – The television show “Normal Life”, with Moon Unit & Dweezil Zappa, premiered on CBS.

1990 – Tony Orlando received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

1990 – The television show “Sydney”, starring Valerie Bertinelli, premiered on CBS.

1994 – Steven Spielberg won his first Oscars. They were for best picture and best director for “Schindler’s List.”

1994 – Wayne Gretzky tied Gordie Howe’s NHL record of 801 goals.

1994 – Bill Gates of Microsoft and Craig McCaw of McCaw Cellular Communications announced a $9 billion plan that would send 840 satellites into orbit to relay information around the globe.

1995 – The TV show “NewsRadio” debuted on NBC. It ran until May of 1999.

1997 – The movie “Liar, Liar”, starring Jim Carrey, premiered in theaters.

1999 – Bertrand Piccard and Brian Jones became the first to circumnavigate the Earth in a hot air balloon.

2000 – Phillip Morris and R.J. Reynolds were found guilty of misrepresenting the danger of cigarettes. A California jury ordered the firms to pay $1.7 million in damages to an ex-smoker dying of cancer and to her husband.

2000 – The Supreme Court ruled 5-4 that the Food and Drug Administration had overstepped its regulatory authority when it attempted to restrict the marketing of cigarettes to youngsters.

2001 – Nintendo released Game Boy Advance.

2005 – After four years, the reality television show “The Osbournes” ended its run on MTV.

2006 – The social media site Twitter was founded. It is now called “X”.

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS ON MARCH 21:

Walter Gilbert – 94 years old (1932) – Physicist and chemist, Nobel Prize laureate

Tom Flores – 89 years old (1937) – Football player and coach

Kathleen Widdoes – 87 years old (1939) – Actress

Amina Claudine Myers – 84 years old (1942) – Singer-songwriter and pianist

Janet Daley – 82 years old (1944) – American-English journalist and author

Rose Stone – 81 years old (1945) – Singer-songwriter and keyboard player

Scott Fahlman – 78 years old (1948) – Computer scientist and academic

Ron Oden – 76 years old (1950) – Minister and politician, 19th Mayor of Palm Springs

Conrad Lozano – 75 years old (1951) – Bass player

Russell Thompkins Jr. – 75 years old (1951) – Singer-songwriter

Mike Dunleavy Sr. – 72 years old (1954) – Basketball player, coach, and executive

Steve Sheppard – 72 years old (1954) – Basketball player

Bob Bennett – 71 years old (1955) – Singer-songwriter and guitarist

Dick Beardsley – 70 years old (1956) – Runner

Brad Hall – 68 years old (1958) – Comedian, director, and screenwriter

Robert Sweet – 66 years old (1960) – Drummer and producer

Kassie DePaiva – 65 years old (1961) – Actress

Kim Turner – 65 years old (1961) – Hurdler

Matthew Broderick – 64 years old (1962) – Actor

Rosie O'Donnell – 64 years old (1962) – Actress, producer, and talk show host

Mark Waid – 64 years old (1962) – Author

Shawon Dunston – 63 years old (1963) – Baseball player

Share Pedersen – 63 years old (1963) – Bass player

Thomas Frank – 61 years old (1965) – Author, historian and political analyst

Cynthia Geary – 61 years old (1965) – Actress

Al Iafrate – 60 years old (1966) – Ice hockey player

DJ Premier – 60 years old (1966) – DJ and producer

Mirela Rupic – 59 years old (1967) – Costume and fashion designer

Andrew Copeland – 58 years old (1968) – Singer and musician

Scott Williams – 58 years old (1968) – Basketball player and sportscaster

Jonah Goldberg – 57 years old (1969) – Journalist and author

Cenk Uygur – 56 years old (1970) – Turkish-American political activist

Large Professor – 53 years old (1973) – Rapper and producer

Laura Allen – 52 years old (1974) – Actress

Michale Graves – 51 years old (1975) – Singer-songwriter

Rachael MacFarlane – 50 years old (1976) – Voice actress and singer

Kevin Federline – 48 years old (1978) – Dancer and television personality

Aaron Hill – 44 years old (1982) – Baseball player

Tarence Kinsey – 42 years old (1984) – Basketball player

Ryan Callahan – 41 years old (1985) – Ice hockey player

Sonequa Martin-Green – 41 years old (1985) – Actress

Adrian Peterson – 41 years old (1985) – Football player

Scott Eastwood – 40 years old (1986) – Actor

Erik Johnson – 38 years old (1988) – Ice hockey player

Ryann Krais – 36 years old (1990) – Runner and heptathlete

Darius Miller – 36 years old (1990) – Basketball player

Alex Nimo – 36 years old (1990) – Liberian-American soccer player

Chiney Ogwumike – 34 years old (1992) – Basketball player

Jasmin Savoy Brown – 32 years old (1994) – Actress

RJ Cyler – 31 years old (1995) – Actor

Nick Mullens – 31 years old (1995) – Football player

Miles Bridges – 28 years old (1998) – Basketball player

Jace Norman – 26 years old (2000) – Actor

DAYS OF THE YEAR FOR MARCH 21:

World Down Syndrome Day: Embrace the resilience and unique beauty that shines brightly within individuals who possess an extra chromosome, fostering compassion and understanding.
World Poetry Day: With words as paint and emotions as the canvas, verses come alive, painting stories of heart and soul, in a symphony of expression.
National Quilting Day: Let's dive into the colorful world of National Quilting Day! Imagine a day dedicated entirely to the celebration of quilts, a craft that combines art, tradition, and community. This day turns the spotlight on a skill that has been an integral part of human culture for centuries. How to Celebrate National...
World Puppetry Day: From simple hand puppets to elaborate marionettes, these lovable characters delight audiences young and old.
Save the Florida Panther Day: Save the Florida Panther Day is an annual observance that spotlights one of North America’s most elusive big cats and the very real challenges it faces. The Florida panther is a population of cougar that survives in a narrow slice of wild country, where forests, swamps, and open prairies still...
International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination: Fostering equality, breaking down barriers, and embracing diversity create a harmonious and just society for everyone to thrive in together.
Play the Recorder Day: Get ready to celebrate the unique sounds of the recorder! Play the Recorder Day, observed annually on the third Saturday of March, fills the air with the sweet tones of this woodwind instrument. Why do we dedicate a day to the recorder? It's all about appreciating this instrument's distinct charm...
International Fragrance Day: A subtle, alluring way to evoke memories and emotions, fragrances have the power to transport anyone to moments long past.
National Corn Dog Day: Get ready to enjoy a delicious snack on a stick! This crispy and savory treat will make your taste buds dance with joy.
World Tattoo Day: Ink on skin, an artistry that narrates stories, etching the essence of existence with symbolic eloquence, transcending mere decoration.
National Single Parent Day: Raising kids solo can be tough, but single parents are superheroes who manage it all. Hats off to their resilience, love, and dedication!
International Sports Car Racing Day: International Sports Car Racing Day puts the spotlight on one of motorsport’s most entertaining corners: the world of sports car endurance racing, where sleek machines, clever strategy, and driver stamina collide. It’s a day for fans to savor roaring engines and razor-thin margins, but also to appreciate the teamwork and...
Spring Fairy Fun Day: Spring Fairy Fun Day is a playful celebration of spring’s fresh-start energy, with a dash of glitter and a wink at folklore. It invites people to notice the small wonders that pop up when the season shifts, like new buds on branches, longer afternoons, and that unmistakable feeling that the...
International Color Day: Vibrant hues evoke emotions, transforming surroundings with a kaleidoscope of sensations, shaping moods and sparking creativity.
National Teenager Day: Being a teenager means navigating a whirlwind of changes, often all at once. National Teenager Day celebrates this unique stretch of life, when opinions sharpen, identities take shape, and the world starts to feel bigger and more complicated. It highlights both the joys and the challenges teens face while making...
National Aries Day: National Aries Day bursts onto the scene as a vibrant tribute to people born under the Aries zodiac sign, a group famously associated with gutsy initiative and a “why not?” approach to life. It is a lighthearted occasion that invites everyone, Aries or not, to celebrate bold beginnings, honest enthusiasm...
National Day of Action on Syringe Exchange: The National Day of Action on Syringe Exchange highlights the importance of syringe service programs (SSPs) in public health and harm reduction. These programs are practical, community-facing responses to a complicated reality: some people inject drugs, and the risks tied to unsafe equipment and unsafe disposal can ripple outward to...
Walk in the Sand Day: Walk in the Sand Day brings people to sandy shores worldwide, inviting everyone to slow down and savor the simple act of walking barefoot on the beach. This day connects nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts as they explore the calming, restorative experience of the sand beneath their feet. Walking in the sand...
National Memory Day: Our brains have the remarkable ability to store countless memories, from the mundane to the extraordinary, shaping our sense of self and providing a rich tapestry of life.
WE Day: WE Day is a powerful celebration dedicated to empowering young people to make a positive impact in their communities and around the world. While specific dates can vary, the event brings together inspiring speakers and performers. The dynamic setting recognizes and encourages youth activism and social service. Unlike traditional holidays with...
Rosie the Riveter Day: Rosie the Riveter Day honors the spirit of courage and determination shown by the women who took on industrial jobs during World War II. Known as “Rosies,” these women defied traditional gender roles, stepping confidently into factories and shipyards to support the war effort while many men served overseas! How...
Harmony Day: Celebrating our differences by valuing each other's uniqueness — we can create a more harmonious world full of love and acceptance.
Flower Day: Flower Day shines like a burst of sunshine, brightening the world with petals and perfume. Streets, shops, and homes seem to bloom all at once. It’s not just about admiring flowers. It’s about what they make us feel—lighter, happier, more awake. One whiff of a lily or glance at a daisy...
National French Bread Day: Crusty, chewy, and delicious, this iconic loaf is the perfect vessel for everything from melted cheese to tangy spreads. Bon appétit!
National Renewable Energy Day: National Renewable Energy Day is a celebration highlighting the critical role of renewable energy in powering a sustainable future. It underscores the need for eco-friendly energy sources, such as wind, solar, and hydropower, to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. This day raises awareness of the harmful impacts of traditional energy...
International Day of Forests: Nature's green lungs, where the air is pure, the trees stand tall, and life hums in a symphony of chirping, buzzing, and rustling leaves.
World Vermouth Day: Aromas of botanicals, a hint of sweetness, and a dash of bitterness create the perfect cocktail ingredient. Cheers to vermouth!
National Common Courtesy Day: Just doing those little things, like holding the door or saying 'thank you,' can turn an ordinary day into a brighter one.
National Crunchy Taco Day: There’s nothing quite like a delicious crunchy taco to provide super-satisfying flavor for lunch or dinner.
National Healthy Fats Day: One of the common themes running through health-care used to be “Fat is Bad!” leading people to lean on carbs, including sugar and processed foods, instead. The fallout from this decision? Obesity rates have continued to soar and the idea that all fat is bad hasspread without ease. National Healthy...
National California Strawberry Day: National California Strawberry Day celebrates the peak of strawberry season, highlighting this sweet, juicy fruit that California is famous for producing. Strawberries thrive in the Golden State’s warm, sunny climate, making them one of the first fruits of spring. From farmers’ markets to home gardens, strawberries mark the arrival of warmer...
Credit Card Reduction Day: Have you ever felt the urge to get your finances under control? Credit Card Reduction Day is the perfect time to focus on reducing your credit card debt. This day highlights the importance of tackling high-interest debt, which can quickly spiral out of control if left unchecked. How to Celebrate Credit...
World Day for Glaciers: Glaciers are Earth’s slow-moving ice rivers, and World Day for Glaciers celebrates them with purpose. These shimmering giants hold much more than frozen water. They feed mighty rivers used for drinking, farming, and clean energy in dry seasons. Glaciers also carry tiny bubbles and dust that tell tales of ancient air...
Slytherin Pride Day: Embracing that cunning, ambitious spirit; the kind that knows what it wants and isn't afraid to slither through life's challenges to get it.
Tiramisu Day: Layered coffee-kissed elegance and creamy richness, encapsulating culinary finesse — a cherished delight for discerning palates.
National Countdown Day: Did you know there's a special day to count down to just about anything? Every year on this day, people across the globe celebrate National Countdown Day. This unique holiday captures the thrill of anticipating events, big and small. How to Celebrate National Countdown Day Here are some quirky and playful ways...
Twitter Day: Twitter Day celebrates the digital space that keeps millions connected, informed, and entertained. Whether it’s following breaking news, joining a cause, or simply sharing thoughts, Twitter allows voices to echo worldwide in seconds. Users turn to Twitter to keep up with events in real-time, chat about trending topics, and even...
Big Bang Day: Big Bang Day celebrates the scientific breakthrough that helped us understand the universe's origin. This day highlights the monumental discovery of the cosmic microwave background radiation. This faint glow, left over from the Big Bang, provided strong evidence for the theory. It marks a moment when our understanding of the...
Education Freedom Day: Imagine a world where learning is available to everyone, no matter where they live or their financial situation. Education Freedom Day champions this vision, focusing on making open-source educational resources accessible to all. This global event celebrates the role of technology in education, helping people tap into free resources like online...
Global Surveyors’ Day: Global Surveyors’ Day highlights a profession most people rarely think about, yet rely on every single day. Surveyors measure land with extreme accuracy, laying the groundwork for roads, buildings, and even digital maps. Their work begins long before construction crews arrive, helping engineers, architects, and planners make informed decisions. Whether it’s...
National Day of Puppetry: National Day of Puppetry is a celebration of the art of puppetry, bringing together communities to enjoy performances, workshops, and exhibitions. It's a time when puppeteers and enthusiasts share their passion for this unique form of storytelling, engaging audiences of all ages with creativity and imagination. The day features a variety...
International Race Relations Day: International Race Relations Day marks a global call to stand against racism and challenge unfair treatment wherever it appears. Voices rise in support of justice, fairness, and equal rights. In streets, schools, offices, and homes, people take time to focus on how we treat one another. The message travels far and...
International Day of Nowruz: The International Day of Nowruz, celebrated on March 21st, marks a special beginning. This day signifies the first day of spring, bringing with it the renewal of nature. People from various cultures honor this time with joy and festivities. It's a time when families come together, sharing meals and exchanging...
March Madness: Get your game face on for March Madness! This high-energy tournament is a slam dunk of excitement, passion, and heart-pumping action. So grab your team colors, gear up for the showdown, and let the madness begin!
National Agriculture Week: National Agriculture Week shines a spotlight on the farmers, ranchers, and agricultural workers who fill our plates and fuel our lives. Behind every meal and everyday product is someone who works hard, from dawn to dusk, to ensure we all have what we need. This week connects us to the...
International Teach Music Week: International Teach Music Week is a vibrant celebration that lights up every year's third week of March, and unites over 750 music schools and various organizations globally. They offer free 30-minute lessons to new students, encouraging everyone from kids to adults to explore the joy of music. It's a time when...
Global Money Week: Every year, Global Money Week (GMW) kicks off excitedly, focusing on enhancing financial awareness among the young. This vibrant event is organized by the OECD International Network on Financial Education, the launch brings together participants from around the world to share knowledge and strategies for managing finances safely and responsibly. How...
National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week: While education about drugs, alcohol, and addiction has been going on for many decades, a great deal of misinformation around the topic has continued to pervade culture, particularly among young people. The aim of this important event is to bring together teens and scientific experts, working to shatter myths about...
Make Mine Chocolate: "Make Mine Chocolate" is a lively campaign urging people to think twice before giving live rabbits as Easter gifts. The campaign encourages people to opt for chocolate bunnies instead. This approach helps spread the message of responsible pet ownership while offering a sweet alternative that won't end up in shelters...
American Chocolate Week: American Chocolate Week is a delightful celebration of one of America's most beloved treats: chocolate. This week-long event allows people to indulge their sweet tooth and explore different ways to enjoy chocolate in its many forms. From creamy milk chocolate to rich dark varieties, there's something for everyone. People take the...
National Fragrance Week: Scent has the remarkable power to shape moods and spark memories. National Fragrance Week celebrates this magic by inviting everyone to explore the world of fragrance. Throughout the week, fragrance experts share insights, and companies offer special promotions, making it the perfect time to discover new scents or deepen appreciation...
National Clean Out Your Closet Week: National Clean Out Your Closet Week is a fun and practical event that encourages everyone to tidy up their closets. It’s the perfect time to sort through clothes, shoes, and accessories, deciding what to keep, donate, or discard. This activity not only helps you organize your space but also gives...
National Animal Poison Prevention Week: National Animal Poison Prevention Week highlights the hidden dangers our pets face from everyday household items. Many substances that seem harmless to us can be toxic for our furry friends. Things like certain plants, human medications, and even some foods can cause severe health issues if ingested by pets. This week...
Week of Solidarity with Peoples Struggling against Racism and Racial Discrimination: The Week of Solidarity with Peoples Struggling against Racism and Racial Discrimination brings communities together in support of a world free from racial hatred and inequality. This UN-led initiative highlights the voices and stories of those affected by racism worldwide, shining a light on the struggles and resilience of diverse...
National Introverts Week: Introverts often have an amazing inner world — they make great listeners and thinkers, adding depth to any conversation.
National Bubble Week: National Bubble Week celebrates the joy of bubbles, offering a lighthearted break that everyone can enjoy. This fun event showcases the mesmerizing beauty of bubbles as they drift through the air, glowing in soft colors and popping with gentle splashes! How to Celebrate National Bubble Week National Bubble Week is all about...
European-wide Action Week Against Racism: European-wide Action Week Against Racism connects communities across borders to take a clear stand against hate. It’s not just a campaign—it’s a shared effort. Schools, community groups, and everyday citizens take part. They speak out in their own way, using clear messages and public spaces to reject racism. The focus stays...
Schools Library Media Center Week: Schools Library Media Center Week highlights the invaluable role of library media centers in schools across the nation. These centers are much more than book collections; they are dynamic spaces that connect students to a world of knowledge, resources, and inspiration. Through their unique blend of traditional books and digital...
National Inhalants and Poisons Awareness Week: National Inhalants and Poisons Awareness Week is a critical event dedicated to educating the public about the dangers of inhalant abuse and accidental poisonings. During this week, communities emphasize the risks associated with everyday household items that can be abused for their fumes. Many people don’t realize that common products like...
UNESCO-ITI World Theater Week: UNESCO-ITI World Theater Week celebrates the magic of live performance across cultures. It highlights voices that rise from every stage. Artists, storytellers, and directors come together to share something real. These stories spark laughter, stir emotion, and open new ways of seeing the world. From packed auditoriums to outdoor street corners...
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...
AKC National Agility Championship: The AKC National Agility Championship is one of the most exciting events for dog lovers. It showcases the speed and precision of canine athletes. Dogs of all breeds and sizes compete in timed obstacle courses that test their agility, coordination, and teamwork with their handlers. The event is fast-paced and...
National Button Week: National Button Week invites people to celebrate the charm and versatility of buttons. This week shines a spotlight on these small but significant items, often overlooked in daily life. Buttons play many roles, from fastening clothing to adding a touch of style or even showing a little personality. During National Button...
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Week: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Week celebrates the remarkable work of nurse practitioners who specialize in children's health. These professionals play a unique role in pediatric healthcare, providing not only routine checkups but also managing chronic conditions, guiding families, and responding to a wide range of health issues from infancy through...
Wellderly Week: Wellderly Week is a special time set aside each year to celebrate and focus on the well-being of our senior community, and is dedicated to promoting health, happiness, and the importance of staying active and engaged, regardless of age. The celebration highlights the significant role that seniors play in our society...
National Anonymous Giving Week: National Anonymous Giving Week highlights a unique form of generosity. This week, people focus on acts of kindness without the need for public praise. The idea is simple: help others without expecting thanks. Whether it’s a donation to a local charity, food for a shelter, or funds for a community...
World Folktales & Fables Week: World Folktales & Fables Week sweeps us into the timeless magic of storytelling. This week invites everyone to dive into tales that have traveled across generations and lands, from clever tricksters to brave heroes and magical creatures. Learn More About World Folktales & Fables Week These stories capture universal ideas—love, courage...