March 21

In 1946, professional American football had been segregated for over a decade when the Los Angeles Rams made history by signing Kenny Washington. Washington had been a star at UCLA, where he dominated opponents with his speed and agility. His signing marked the end of an unofficial color ban that had excluded African American players since the early 1930s. The Rams’ decision challenged racial segregation in sports and inspired other teams to follow suit. Washington’s entry into the NFL symbolized a major step toward integration and civil rights in athletics. Despite facing discrimination and limited opportunities, he paved the way for future black athletes. His courage and talent left a lasting legacy on American football and society at large.

On March 21, 1980, President Jimmy Carter announced that the United States would boycott the upcoming Summer Olympics in Moscow to protest the Soviet–Afghan War. This decision came after months of diplomatic tension following the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in late 1979. Carter’s announcement aimed to pressure the Soviet Union to withdraw its troops and uphold international law. The move drew support and criticism from political leaders, athletes, and the public. Ultimately, over 60 countries joined the boycott, significantly impacting the Games. The action underscored the Cold War’s influence on global sports and international relations. It remains one of the most significant examples of political protest in Olympic history.

On March 21, 1986, Debi Thomas made history by winning the Ladies’ title at the World Figure Skating Championships in Geneva. Her victory marked the first time an African American skater had claimed a World Championship in this sport. Thomas’s groundbreaking performance showcased technical skill and artistic expression, earning her high marks from judges. She served as a trailblazer for diversity in figure skating, inspiring future generations of athletes. Her success opened doors for athletes of all backgrounds in a sport long dominated by European competitors. Off the ice, Thomas balanced her athletic career with academic pursuits, later becoming a physician. Her World Championship win remains a landmark achievement in sports and civil rights history.

On March 21, 1999, Swiss adventurers Bertrand Piccard and British pilot Brian Jones completed the first non-stop circumnavigation of the globe in a hot air balloon. Launching from Château-d’Oex, Switzerland, they spent nearly 20 days in the Breitling Orbiter 3 as it drifted with high-altitude wind currents. Their journey covered approximately 45,000 kilometers, passing over Europe, Asia, the Pacific Ocean, and North America. The mission demonstrated innovative balloon design and advanced navigation techniques, including ballast management and weather forecasting. Their achievement set a new record for manned gas balloons and earned international acclaim. Piccard and Jones’s flight inspired future explorers and underscored humanity’s pursuit of adventure and scientific challenge. The Breitling Orbiter 3 now serves as a symbol of pioneering spirit in aviation history.