Fact 1: Day of Astonishing Equinoxes
March 21 often marks the occurrence of both the Spring Equinox in the Northern Hemisphere and the Autumn Equinox in the Southern Hemisphere. On this day, the hours of daylight and darkness are approximately equal, hence the word "equinox" - derived from Latin, meaning "equal night".
Fact 2: Iconic Astronomical Phenomenon
From an astronomical viewpoint, March 21 is regarded as the date when the Sun crosses the celestial equator. The elevational angle with which the sun rises and sets on this day is 90 degrees, resulting in an almost straight up or down trajectory.
Fact 3: Celebration of International Day of Forests
The United Nations has designated March 21 as the International Day of Forests. This seeks to raise awareness about the importance of all types of forests. People are encouraged to plant trees on this day to contribute to their local environment's sustainability.
Fact 4: Unique World Poetry Day
Showcasing the expressive cultural significance of poetry, UNESCO inaugurated March 21 as World Poetry Day. On this day, poets all over this globe are celebrated and their artistry lauded.
Fact 5: Birthday of a Music Legend
March 21 is known for the birth of Johann Sebastian Bach, one of the most influential composers of the Baroque era. His birth in 1685 is celebrated by music enthusiasts worldwide.
Fact 6: Ephemerality of Cherry Blossoms
In Japan, cherry blossom season traditionally begins around March 21. The national flower, Sakura, symbolizes renewal as well as the ephemeral nature of life due to the flower’s short blooming period.
Fact 7: Start of Aries Astral Cycle
Astrologically, March 21 often marks the beginning of the period of Aries in the zodiac calendar. The ram, considered a symbol of leadership and initiative, is the symbol of this fire sign.
Fact 8: An Unfortunate Titanic Coincidence
On March 21, 1912, an iceberg warning was issued that could have saved Titanic, 20 days before its ill-fated maiden voyage.
Fact 9: The First Twitter Post
Interestingly, Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey sent the world's first non-automated tweet on March 21, 2006, stating: "just setting up my twttr".
Fact 10: Bollywood's Legend Birth Anniversary
For Bollywood aficionados, March 21 is the birth date of Shashi Kapoor, a noted actor and producer of Indian cinema, born in 1938.
Fact 11: International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
The United Nations proclaimed March 21 as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, following a tragic event in 1960 when police killed 69 people during a peaceful anti-apartheid demonstration in Sharpeville, South Africa.
Fact 12: Goodbye Winter, Hello Spring
For cultures in the Northern Hemisphere, March 21 often represents the official end of winter and the start of spring, leading to celebrations of new beginnings and the rebirth of nature.
Fact 13: Binding Religion – Baháʼà New Year
March 21 is a significant date for the Baháʼà community as it denotes the start of their New Year, called Naw-Rúz. It celebrates spiritual renewal with prayers, music, and festive meals.
Fact 14: The Birth of the Telephone
On March 21, 1876, Bell Telephone Company was established. Alexander Graham Bell's invention revolutionized communication, making instant contact possible over long distances.
Fact 15: Celebrating Single Parents
National Single Parent Day is also observed on March 21 to recognize the dedication, sacrifice, and hard work of single parents.
Fact 16: The Alcatraz Prison Closure
Alcatraz, one of the most famous prisons in the world, closed its doors forever on March 21, 1963, due to high operating costs.
Fact 17: Eiffel Tower Inauguration Date
In 1889, on March 21, the Eiffel Tower was officially completed, becoming an iconic symbol of France.
Fact 18: Ceremonial Sitting Day for Federal Judges
It might seem odd, but after their nomination and confirmation, newly appointed federal judges in the United States traditionally take their seats on March 21.
Fact 19: World Down Syndrome Day
Observed on March 21, World Down Syndrome Day raises awareness about the condition. The date was chosen because Down syndrome results from the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome.
Fact 20: Singapore's Currency Birthday
On March 21 1967, Singapore established its own currency - the Singaporean Dollar, breaking away from Malaysia's common currency after their political separation.