1856day.year
Australian labour movement: Stonemasons and building workers on building sites around Melbourne march from the University of Melbourne to Parliament House to achieve an eight-hour day.
Building workers in Melbourne march for an eight-hour workday, launching a movement that would shape labor rights across Australia.
In April 1856, stonemasons and building laborers in Melbourne organized a spirited march from the University of Melbourne to Parliament House to demand an eight-hour workday. Their rallying cry of “Eight hours’ labour, eight hours’ recreation, eight hours’ rest” encapsulated the growing global movement for improved labor conditions. Parliament’s swift response in granting their demands set a precedent for the eight-hour workday in Australia and influenced labor rights campaigns internationally. The success of the Melbourne stonemasons became a cornerstone of the Australian labor movement, inspiring trade unions and shaping fair work standards. This landmark demonstration underscored the power of collective bargaining and peaceful protest in advancing social reforms.
1856
Australian labour movement
eight-hour day
1934day.year
The "Surgeon's Photograph", the most famous photo allegedly showing the Loch Ness Monster, is published in the Daily Mail (in 1994, it is revealed to be a hoax).
On April 21, 1934, the Daily Mail published the famed 'Surgeon's Photograph' of the Loch Ness Monster, later exposed as a hoax in 1994.
The Daily Mail printed the so-called Surgeon's Photograph, claiming it showed Nessie peering above Loch Ness's waters.
This eerie image captivated the public and spurred worldwide interest in cryptozoology and the Loch Ness legend.
Decades of speculation and investigation surrounded its authenticity as researchers examined its origins.
In 1994, the photograph was conclusively revealed to be a staged hoax using a toy submarine and sculpted head.
Despite the revelation, the image endures as an iconic symbol of mystery and human fascination with the unknown.
The Surgeon's Photograph illustrates the power of media to shape folklore and belief.
1934
Loch Ness Monster
Daily Mail
1950day.year
The Nainital wedding massacre occurs, killing 22 members of the Harijan caste.
On April 21, 1950, the Nainital wedding massacre resulted in the killing of 22 members of the Harijan caste amid communal tensions in India.
In 1950, caste-based discrimination fueled violence at a wedding gathering in Nainital, India.
Armed assailants targeted guests from the Harijan (Dalit) community, brutally killing 22 attendees.
The massacre sparked national outrage and prompted legal reforms aimed at protecting marginalized castes.
Victims' families sought justice amid deep-seated social divisions that hindered swift accountability.
The incident highlighted the urgent need for caste equality and influenced subsequent civil rights movements.
Nainital's tragedy remains a sobering chapter in India's struggle against untouchability and social injustice.
1950
Nainital wedding massacre
1952day.year
Secretary's Day (now Administrative Professionals' Day) is first celebrated.
On April 21, 1952, Secretary's Day (now Administrative Professionals' Day) was celebrated for the first time to honor office support staff.
In 1952, the National Secretaries Association designated April 21 as Secretary's Day to recognize the contributions of administrative personnel.
The observance encouraged employers to acknowledge the skills and dedication of secretaries, receptionists, and office managers.
Over time, the holiday expanded globally and evolved into Administrative Professionals' Day.
Today, organizations celebrate with gifts, luncheons, and awards to boost morale and show appreciation.
The annual tradition highlights the vital role of office staff in maintaining business operations.
Secretary's Day reflects broader efforts to elevate workplace recognition and employee engagement.
1952
Secretary's Day
1962day.year
The Seattle World's Fair (Century 21 Exposition) opens. It is the first World's Fair in the United States since World War II.
The Seattle World's Fair opens on April 21, 1962, marking America's first post-war international exposition.
On April 21, 1962, the Century 21 Exposition, also known as the Seattle World's Fair, opened its gates in Seattle, Washington. This event was the first World's Fair held in the United States since World War II. The fair celebrated scientific innovation, space exploration, and the emerging Space Age with iconic exhibits like the Space Needle. Over two million visitors attended, exploring pavilions, gardens, and international displays. The exposition boosted Seattle's economy and left a lasting cultural legacy. Many of its structures, including the Space Needle and Pacific Science Center, remain popular landmarks today. The fair showcased Cold War-era optimism and technological ambition.
1962
Seattle World's Fair
World's Fair
1965day.year
The 1964–1965 New York World's Fair opens for its second and final season.
The New York World's Fair reopens on April 21, 1965, for its final season of cultural exhibitions.
On April 21, 1965, the 1964–1965 New York World's Fair resumed operations for its second and final season in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park. The fair featured pavilions showcasing advancements in science, industry, and culture from around the globe. Iconic attractions included the Unisphere, General Motors' Futurama, and cutting-edge consumer products. Attendance reached millions as visitors explored exhibitions on space travel, communication, and international relations. The event left a lasting imprint on New York's skyline and inspired future world expos. Though the fair ended later that year, its architectural marvels and cultural highlights remain emblematic of mid-20th century optimism.
1965
1964–1965 New York World's Fair
1966day.year
Rastafari movement: Haile Selassie of Ethiopia visits Jamaica, an event now celebrated as Grounation Day.
Haile Selassie visits Jamaica on April 21, 1966, an event celebrated as Grounation Day in Rastafari culture.
On April 21, 1966, Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia made a historic visit to Jamaica, greeted by thousands of Rastafari followers. The occasion became known as Grounation Day, one of the most sacred holidays in the Rastafari movement. Pilgrims sang hymns, drummed, and participated in Nyabinghi ceremonies to honor the emperor. Selassie's presence strengthened the spiritual bond between Ethiopia and Jamaican believers. His visit brought international attention to Rastafari beliefs and culture. Grounation Day continues to be celebrated annually with cultural performances, gatherings, and acts of community service. The event symbolizes unity, redemption, and the African diaspora's heritage.
1966
Rastafari movement
Haile Selassie
Ethiopia
Jamaica
Grounation Day