May 21

On May 21, 1554, Queen Mary I granted a royal charter to found Derby School in Derby, England, formalizing its status as a grammar school for boys. The charter aimed to promote classical education, focusing on Latin grammar, rhetoric, and moral instruction. Established during the Tudor era's educational reforms, the school reflected growing royal interest in learning and clerical training. Over the centuries, Derby School became renowned for its academic rigor and notable alumni. Its foundation illustrates the role of education in social mobility and civic identity during the 16th century. The school's charter laid a legal and financial framework that supported its operation for centuries. Today, Derby School's heritage endures in local traditions and historical records. The royal patronage underscored the monarch's role in shaping England's educational landscape.

Under President José Hilario López, Colombia passed a law on May 21, 1851 to emancipate enslaved people across the nation. The legislation freed those born after the law’s enactment and provided gradual manumission for existing slaves. Owners were compensated by the government, aiming for a peaceful transition away from slavery. Abolition influenced social and economic reforms throughout the young republic. This act signaled a key moment in Latin America’s movement toward human rights and equality.

On May 21, 1881, Clara Barton, a pioneering nurse from the Civil War, established the American Red Cross in Dansville, New York. Inspired by the International Committee of the Red Cross, Barton later secured a federal charter in 1900. The organization provided disaster relief, medical supplies, and support to American soldiers during wartime. Under Barton’s leadership, the Red Cross expanded its mission to include peacetime relief efforts and public health services. Today, the American Red Cross remains a leading humanitarian organization, responding to emergencies across the United States.

On May 21, 1969, funeral marches for a 15-year-old student killed by police turned into mass protests. The unrest, called the Rosariazo, saw thousands of workers and students clashing with security forces. Demonstrators demanded justice, democratic reforms, and an end to authoritarian rule under General Onganía. Barricades, strikes, and violent confrontations disrupted Rosario’s economy and public life. The uprising inspired similar protests across Argentina, including the Cordobazo revolt. Rosariazo became a symbol of popular resistance against military dictatorship and social inequality.

After Dan White was convicted of voluntary manslaughter on May 21, 1979, San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ community protested the verdict. Thousands gathered outside City Hall demanding justice for the slain Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk. Rioters smashed windows, set fires, and clashed with police on Market Street. Governor Jerry Brown briefly declared a state of emergency to restore order. The White Night riots highlighted tensions over gay rights, police brutality, and legal bias. The events galvanized activism and led to reforms in hate crime legislation.

In Miami on May 21, 1998, a perpetrator armed with butyric acid attacked five abortion clinics, splattering the foul-smelling chemical and forcing temporary closures. Although no fatalities were reported, the assaults caused extensive damage to clinic interiors and increased security concerns. The attacks were widely condemned as acts of domestic terrorism motivated by extreme anti-abortion sentiment. Clinic staff and patients faced both physical disruption and psychological trauma. The incidents intensified the national debate over abortion rights and clinic protection. Law enforcement agencies heightened patrols and reviewed protocols for safeguarding medical facilities.

Family Radio host Harold Camping announced on air that Judgment Day would occur on this date. He based his prediction on complex biblical numerology and proprietary calculations. The forecast prompted followers to sell possessions and prepare for the apocalypse. When the predicted end failed to materialize, Camping revised his prediction to October of that year. The event sparked debates over doomsday prophecies and media responsibility.