Today in History: Hawaii becomes the 50th U.S. state

The following is a chronological list of notable events that occurred on August 21 throughout history:

1680 – Pueblo Revolt: Pueblo Indians capture Santa Fe from Spanish control

The Pueblo Revolt saw Pueblo warriors expel Spanish colonists from Santa Fe—marking a pivotal moment in colonial resistance.

1770 – Captain James Cook claims eastern Australia, naming it New South Wales

Cook’s landing and claim laid the groundwork for British colonization on Australia’s east coast.

1831 – Nat Turner launches slave rebellion in Virginia

Turner’s uprising began on August 21, resulting in the deaths of at least 55 white individuals and triggering extensive reprisals.

1858 – First Lincoln–Douglas debate held in Ottawa, Illinois

The debate between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas began on this day, shaping national political discourse.

1878 – The American Bar Association is founded

This professional organization was established in Saratoga Springs, New York.

1911 – Mona Lisa is stolen from the Louvre

The iconic painting was taken by Vincenzo Peruggia, creating a media sensation and boosting its global renown.

1944 – Dumbarton Oaks Conference begins (precursor to the UN)

Representatives from the U.S., U.K., Soviet Union, and China started foundational discussions for establishing the United Nations.

1959 – Hawaii becomes the 50th U.S. state

On August 21, 1959, Hawaii was officially admitted into the Union as the 50th state.

1970 – Catholic Church modifies patron saint practices & IAU names lunar craters

The Congregation for Divine Worship decreed only one patron saint per entity, and the International Astronomical Union named 513 lunar craters—including those for Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins.

1986 – Limnic eruption at Lake Nyos in Cameroon kills approximately 2,000 people

A deadly release of carbon dioxide gas from Lake Nyos devastated several villages, killing nearly 2,000 residents.