March 21st - Civil Rights Strides, Closures, and Massacres!   

On March 21th:

1778 The Massacre at Hancock’s Bridge

On March 21, 1778, during the American Revolutionary War, British troops and Loyalist militia conducted a brutal massacre at Hancock's Bridge in New Jersey. The attack resulted in the deaths of numerous Patriots, including local militiamen and civilians. The Hancock's Bridge massacre further fueled the tensions between Patriots and Loyalists, escalating the conflict in the region.

1963 Alcatraz Closes its Doors

On this day in history, the notorious Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary closes its doors, marking the end of its role as a high-security prison housing some of America's most notorious criminals. Located on an island in San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz gained a reputation as an escape-proof facility during its 29 years of operation, capturing the public's imagination through numerous escape attempts and Hollywood depictions. Alcatraz has since been added to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, open for tourism.

1965 MLK Jr. Begins Selma to Montgomery March

Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. begins the historic Selma to Montgomery march in Alabama, advocating for voting rights and challenging racial segregation in the United States. This pivotal event in the Civil Rights Movement brought national attention to systemic injustice and ultimately led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.