August 21

In 2017, a remarkable solar eclipse illuminated the entire continental United States, captivating millions of spectators as it crossed the country.

In 2013, a devastating chemical attack in the Ghouta region of Syria resulted in the deaths of hundreds of individuals, marking a tragic turning point in the ongoing conflict.

In 2000, American golfer Tiger Woods made history by winning the 82nd PGA Championship, becoming the first golfer since Ben Hogan in 1953 to clinch three major championships in a single calendar year.

In 1995, Atlantic Southeast Airlines Flight 529, operating an Embraer EMB 120 Brasilia, faced a left engine failure while attempting to divert to West Georgia Regional Airport. Tragically, the aircraft crashed in Carroll County, near Carrollton, Georgia, resulting in the loss of nine lives out of the 29 passengers and crew on board. This incident highlights the critical importance of aviation safety and engine reliability.

In 1994, Royal Air Maroc Flight 630 tragically crashed in Douar Izounine, Morocco, resulting in the loss of all 44 passengers and crew members onboard.

In 1993, NASA lost communication with the Mars Observer spacecraft, marking a significant event in space exploration history. This loss of contact raised questions about mission challenges in interplanetary exploration.

In 1991, a failed coup attempt against Mikhail Gorbachev marked a significant turning point in Soviet history.

In 1991, Latvia officially declared the restoration of its full independence after enduring Soviet occupation since 1940. This significant event marked a pivotal moment in the nation's history and the broader context of Eastern European freedom from Soviet rule.

The 1988 Nepal earthquake, measuring 6.9 Mw, struck the Nepal-India border with a devastating Mercalli intensity of VIII (Severe). This catastrophic event resulted in the tragic loss of 709 to 1,450 lives and left thousands more injured. Discover more about the impact and aftermath of this significant seismic event.

In 1986, a deadly eruption of carbon dioxide gas from volcanic Lake Nyos in Cameroon tragically claimed the lives of nearly 1,800 individuals within a 20-kilometre (12 mi) radius. This catastrophic event highlights the dangers posed by volcanic lakes and the importance of monitoring gas emissions.