What happened on January 21 in world history? Here are 4 events worth remembering: See them above in our 57-second video, and below for more details!
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Commercial service of Concorde begins with the London - Bahrain and Paris - Rio routes
The Concorde, a supersonic airliner, began its commercial service, offering the world a revolutionary way to travel faster than the speed of sound.
• The Concorde could fly at speeds up to 1,354 miles per hour (2,180 km/h), drastically reducing flight times across the Atlantic.
• Its initial commercial routes included London to Bahrain and Paris to Rio de Janeiro, with plans for further global routes.
• Despite its groundbreaking technology, the Concorde was only in service for over 27 years, retiring in 2003 due to operational costs and safety concerns following the 2000 crash.
Russian revolutionary Vladimir Ilyich Lenin dies at age 53
Vladimir Lenin, the key figure in the Russian Revolution of 1917 and the founder of the Soviet Union, passed away at the age of 53.
• Lenin’s death in 1924 led to a power struggle within the Communist Party, eventually resulting in Joseph Stalin’s rise to leadership.
• Lenin’s ideas, compiled in his works, shaped Marxist-Leninist ideology, which became the foundation for Soviet governance.
• His body was embalmed and displayed in a mausoleum in Red Square, where it remained a symbol of Soviet power for decades.
Pope John Paul II began his first visit to Cuba
Pope John Paul II made a historic visit to Cuba, marking a significant moment in the relationship between the Catholic Church and the Communist regime.
• The visit was a turning point in Cuba’s religious policies, as the government allowed greater freedom for religious activities.
• During his visit, the Pope advocated for peace, social justice, and the respect of human rights in Cuba, resonating with both Cuban citizens and the international community.
• The trip was part of a broader effort by Pope John Paul II to improve relations between the Church and the Communist world.
British Comic Benny Hill is born
Benny Hill, a legendary British comedian known for his slapstick humor and iconic sketch shows, was born in Southampton, England.
• Hill became famous for “The Benny Hill Show,” which featured fast-paced skits, music, and his signature “Yakety Sax” theme song.
• His comedic style, which combined physical humor and satirical commentary, made him a global television star, particularly in the U.S. during the 1970s and 1980s.
• Despite being controversial for its sexual innuendo, Hill’s impact on television comedy is undeniable, and he remains a beloved figure in British entertainment.