What happened on August 21st?

Good morning! 

On this day in 1911, the Mona Lisa was stolen! This sparked an international uproar and transformed the masterpiece into a global icon.

Keep reading and find out what else happened on this day in history.

🎨1911: Mona Lisa Was Stolen

In 1911, the Mona Lisa, Leonardo da Vinci's iconic painting, was stolen from the Louvre Museum in Paris. The theft occurred on August 21, 1911, when the painting was taken by Vincenzo Peruggia, an Italian handyman who had worked at the museum. Peruggia, motivated by a belief that the painting should be returned to Italy, hid the Mona Lisa in his apartment for over two years.

The theft caused a worldwide sensation and a massive manhunt. The Louvre temporarily closed, and the case received extensive media coverage, increasing public and scholarly interest in the painting. After an investigation led by French authorities, Peruggia was eventually caught attempting to sell the painting in Italy. The Mona Lisa was recovered in December 1913 and returned to the Louvre, where it remains one of the most celebrated and secure artworks in the world.

🛡️1808: Arthur Wellesley Defeated Andoche Junot's Forces at the Battle of Vimeiro

Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas faced off in a series of seven debates in Illinois, focusing on the contentious issue of slavery's expansion into new territories. These debates were crucial as they highlighted Lincoln's opposition to slavery and Douglas's support for popular sovereignty, where territories could decide the issue themselves. Lincoln's articulate arguments against the spread of slavery garnered national attention, significantly raising his profile and laying the groundwork for his successful 1860 presidential campaign. Read more about Abraham Lincoln in The Paradoxical President: Re-imagining Abraham Lincoln.

✊1831: Nat Turner Began an Unsuccessful Slave Rebellion

Nat Turner, a slave and preacher, led a violent uprising in Southampton County, Virginia, in a desperate attempt to end the brutal system of slavery. Turner and his followers killed around 60 white people, believing it was his divine mission to liberate enslaved African Americans. The rebellion was swiftly crushed by the militia, resulting in the execution of Turner and many of his supporters. In the aftermath, the rebellion sparked widespread fear among slaveholders, leading to harsher laws against slaves and free blacks.

🦌1942: Bambi Was Released in Theatres in the United States

Walt Disney's animated film premiered on August 21, 1942, captivating audiences with its touching narrative of a young fawn growing up in the forest. The film's groundbreaking animation techniques, including realistic animal movements and detailed forest environments, set new standards for the industry. Adapted from Felix Salten's 1923 book Bambi, A Life in the Woods, the movie dealt with themes of life, death, and the impact of human activities on nature. Despite initial mixed reviews and modest box office performance, Bambi went on to become a beloved classic, lauded for its artistry and emotional depth.

🌺1959: Hawaii Became the 50th US State

This followed a long journey from the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893 and subsequent annexation by the United States in 1898. The strategic importance of Hawaii during World War II, particularly after the attack on Pearl Harbor, highlighted its value to the U.S. The statehood vote, overwhelmingly supported by Hawaiian residents, signified a new era of economic growth and cultural exchange. 

✉️1971: Antiwar Protestors Raid Drafted Offices

A coordinated effort by antiwar activists saw raids on draft offices in multiple US cities, including Camden, New Jersey, and Buffalo, New York. They destroyed draft records to disrupt the Vietnam War by hindering conscription. This action was part of a broader antiwar movement employing civil disobedience to end US involvement in Vietnam. The Camden 28, a notable group, were arrested and tried, exemplifying the intense domestic opposition and the activists' commitment to promoting peace.

📚1974: The Equal Educational Opportunities Act Took Effect

The law mandated that all public schools in the United States take active measures to eliminate racial segregation and discrimination. It offered equal access to education for all races, addressed language barriers for non-English speakers, and rectified resource inequities. The act empowered the federal government to enforce desegregation and allowed individuals to challenge discriminatory practices. Learn how one little black girl changed the history of her school in Ruby Bridges: A Black Girl Who Desegregated Her School.

🐾1980: PETA Was Founded

Ingrid Newkirk and Alex Pacheco established People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) to combat animal cruelty and promote animal rights. PETA quickly grew into a leading global organization by exposing inhumane practices in industries such as factory farming, animal testing, and the fur trade. Known for its provocative campaigns and undercover investigations, PETA's efforts have led to significant changes in legislation and corporate policies regarding animal welfare.

💃1987: Dirty Dancing Was Released in American Theatres

Starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey, the movie captivated audiences with its story of young love set against the backdrop of a 1960s summer resort. The film's memorable dance sequences, particularly the iconic lift in the final scene, and its hit soundtrack, featuring songs like (I've Had) The Time of My Life, contributed to its widespread acclaim. Despite modest expectations, Dirty Dancing became a massive box office success and a cultural phenomenon.

🌑2017: The Continental United States Experienced a Total Solar Eclipse

Millions across the continental U.S. witnessed the "Great American Eclipse," the first coast-to-coast total solar eclipse since 1918. Stretching from Oregon to South Carolina, the 70-mile-wide path of totality plunged observers into complete darkness for a few minutes. This rare event attracted widespread attention, with many traveling far to experience it, reigniting public interest in astronomy.

🌟Born on This Day in History

1765: William IV, King of Great Britain

William IV supported the Reform Act 1832 and modernized the British electoral system by redistributing seats in Parliament and extending the franchise.

1930: Princess Margaret, British Royal

Princess Margaret was a prominent socialite and patron of the arts, known for vibrant personality and controversial relationships, reflecting changing norms of the British monarchy.

1936: Wilt Chamberlain, Basketball Player

Set numerous records, including scoring 100 points in a single NBA game, revolutionizing basketball with exceptional athleticism and scoring ability.

💔Died on This Day in History

1614: Elizabeth Báthory, Hungarian Countess

Elizabeth Báthory became infamous for alleged crimes against young women, inspiring myths and horror stories, leaving a dark legacy in Hungarian history.

1724: Alexander Natalis, French Theologian and Historian

Alexander Natalis contributed extensively to the study of church history and dogma, with works that continue to be referenced in historical and theological contexts.

1940: Leon Trotsky, Russian Revolutionary

Leon Trotsky was a key architect of the Bolshevik Revolution and founder of the Red Army.  He left a lasting impact on socialist thought through theories on permanent revolution and opposition to Stalinism.

That’s a wrap for August 21! Today’s events were like a rollercoaster ride through time. I’ve had my fair share of "wow" moments, and I hope you did too. See you tomorrow!

Matt