1998⚡ Event
Suharto resigns as Indonesian president
Indonesian president Suharto resigned after a collapse of support for his presidency amid economic and political crises. His resignation ended 32 years of authoritarian rule.
politicseconomics
What Happened on May 21?
Discover 15 historical moments on May 21 — 5 events, 5 birthdays, and 5 notable deaths spanning centuries of human history.
politicsentertainmentmusicdisastersportseconomicswarliterature
Hero image inspired by: Elena Huelva
Historical Events on May 21(5)
2005⚡ Event
Kingda Ka roller coaster opens
The world's tallest roller coaster, Kingda Ka, opened at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey. It offered thrill-seekers an unprecedented ride experience.
entertainment
2014⚡ Event
Taipei Metro stabbing attack
A man carried out a stabbing spree on a Taipei Metro train, killing four people and injuring 24 others. The incident caused widespread shock and calls for improved security.
disaster
2015⚡ Event
Islamic State seizes Palmyra
Islamic State militants entered the ancient city of Palmyra. This marked a significant territorial gain for the group in Syria.
war
2024⚡ Event
Greenfield tornado
The Greenfield tornado, estimated to have produced winds in excess of 309 miles per hour, moved across Iowa.
disaster
Famous Birthdays on May 21(5)
Notable Deaths on May 21(5)
2019🕊️ Death
Binyavanga Wainaina
Kenyan writer Binyavanga Wainaina died. He was born in 1971.
literature
2020🕊️ Death
Alan Merten
Alan Merten, the fifth President of George Mason University, died. He was born in 1941.
politics
2025🕊️ Death
Gerry Connolly
American politician and U.S. Representative from Virginia's 11th congressional district.
politics
May 21 in History
May 21 is home to 15 recorded historical entries in our collection, including 5 notable events, 5 famous birthdays, and 5 deaths. This date has witnessed momentous occasions spanning from 1998 to the present day.
Major Events on May 21
Among the most notable events on May 21: Suharto resigns as Indonesian president (1998), Kingda Ka roller coaster opens (2005), Taipei Metro stabbing attack (2014). View all events →
Famous Birthdays on May 21
Notable figures born on May 21 include Ivan De Santis, Sisca Folkertsma, Viktoria Petryk. View all birthdays →
Notable Deaths on May 21
Remembered figures who died on May 21 include Rik Kuypers, Binyavanga Wainaina, Alan Merten. View all →
Browse what happened on May 20 or May 22, explore the full month of May, or discover a random historical fact.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happened on May 21?
- May 21 is home to 15 recorded historical entries, including 5 notable events, 5 famous birthdays, and 5 notable deaths.
- What is the most notable event on May 21?
- One of the most notable events on May 21 is: Suharto resigns as Indonesian president.
- Who was born on May 21?
- Famous figures born on May 21 include Ivan De Santis, Sisca Folkertsma, Viktoria Petryk.
- How many historical events happened on May 21?
- Our collection records 5 historical events on May 21, spanning centuries of world history.
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