Birthdays & Historical Events – February 21

← National Days on February 21

Birthdays & Historical Events – February 21

Historical Events on February 21

Events that occurred on February 21 throughout history

1878

The New Haven District Telephone Company issued the first

The New Haven District Telephone Company issued the first telephone directory in the United States. The directory listed approximately 50 subscribers, advertisements, and instructions for using the telephone. Absent from the directory? Telephone numbers.

1885

On a frigid day in February, honor guests and military

On a frigid day in February, honor guests and military leaders gathered to dedicate the Washington Monument. During the ceremonies, President Chester Arthur accepted the monument on behalf of the people. The 555-foot tall obelisk opened to the public on October 9, 1888, after construction was completed.

1965

While speaking at the Audubon Ballroom during an

While speaking at the Audubon Ballroom during an Organization of Afro-American Unity meeting, Malcolm X is assassinated. Three members of the Nation of Islam were convicted of the crime: Thomas Hagan, Muhammad Abdul Aziz, and Khalil Islam. Only Thomas Hagan admitted involvement.