On this day, October 21 - Know what happened today in history

October 21 has seen events that have left their mark on history. From the conviction of Oscar Pistorius to the defining of the metre, this date has witness both monumental advancements and personal tragedies. Let's explore some significant moments that occurred on this day, which continue to shape our world in their unique ways.

Oscar Pistorius Sentenced to Five Years in 2014

The South African Paralympic star, Oscar Pistorius, was convicted of culpable homicide for the tragic death of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, in 2014. He was sentenced to five years in prison, a moment that captured the world’s attention. Pistorius, once hailed as an icon of hope, was released on parole for good behaviour a year later, but the legal battle didn’t end there. In December 2015, South Africa’s Supreme Court of Appeal found him guilty of murder, highlighting the complexities of justice and public scrutiny.

Defining the Metre in 1983

On October 21, 1983, the 17th General Conference on Weights and Measures concluded, leaving behind an important legacy: the modern definition of the metre. This measurement was officially defined as the distance light travels in a vacuum in just over three hundred millionths of a second. The evolution of this basic unit of measurement reflects humanity’s pursuit of precision and scientific progress. From its initial definition in 1793 to its complex wavelengths in the 1960s, this change brought global standardisation.

Somalia’s 1969 Coup

The political landscape of Somalia was forever changed on this day in 1969, when Siad Barre staged a military coup following the assassination of President Abdirashid Ali Shermarke. The coup would mark the beginning of Barre’s rule, which lasted for over two decades. His regime was characterised by socialist policies and a centralised government, which both shaped and scarred Somalia’s political history.

Opening of the Guggenheim in 1959

On October 21, 1959, New York’s Guggenheim Museum opened its doors to the public, showcasing an impressive collection of contemporary art. Designed by the visionary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the museum’s striking structure became a work of art in itself. The Guggenheim continues to house some of the most sought-after artworks, remaining a beacon of modern art.

Subhas Chandra Bose Declares Free India in 1943

During a passionate rally in Singapore on this day in 1943, Subhas Chandra Bose declared the establishment of the Provisional Government of Free India, or Azad Hind. Bose, a key figure in India’s independence movement, was named the leader of the government-in-exile, which operated with the support of Japan during World War II. Azad Hind's declaration of war against the Allies underscored the international dimension of India’s struggle for freedom.

Births on October 21

• 1986: Natalee Holloway, American, whose mysterious disappearance gripped the world.


• 1980: Kim Kardashian, American model and reality TV personality, known for her media empire.


• 1956: Carrie Fisher, American actress and writer, celebrated for her role as Princess Leia.


• 1949: Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli politician, and 9th Prime Minister of Israel.


• 1772: Samuel Taylor Coleridge, English poet and philosopher, best known for The Rime of the Ancient Mariner.

Notable Deaths on October 21

• 2014: Gough Whitlam, Australian politician and 21st Prime Minister of Australia.


• 2012: George McGovern, American politician and presidential candidate.


• 2003: Elliott Smith, American singer-songwriter, remembered for his haunting lyrics.


• 1969: Jack Kerouac, American novelist, central to the Beat Generation.


• 1805: Horatio Nelson, English admiral, who became a British naval hero at the Battle of Trafalgar.

October 21 serves as a reminder of the significant events that have shaped our world, from political upheavals to scientific breakthroughs, and the legacies left by both public figures and everyday people.