December 21 is an important day in New Jersey history. New Jersey has a rich history and is home to several significant events and landmarks. Here are five interesting facts about December 21 in New Jersey history:

1. The first official basketball game was played in New Jersey on December 21, 1891. The game, which was played at the International YMCA Training School in Springfield, Massachusetts, was invented by Canadian physical education instructor James Naismith. The game quickly gained popularity and today, basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world.

2. On December 21, 1937, the Lincoln Tunnel was officially opened. The tunnel, which connects Weehawken, New Jersey, to Midtown Manhattan, was considered a remarkable engineering feat at the time of its construction. It continues to be one of the most heavily trafficked tunnels in the United States today.

3. December 21, 1985, marked the opening of the first section of the Cape May Seashore Lines. This line connects the cities of Cape May and Woodbine in southern New Jersey. The railway is used for recreational purposes, such as tourism and seasonal events.

4. One of the deadliest fires in New Jersey history occurred on December 21, 1910. The blaze, which broke out at the Triangle Shirtwaist factory in New York City, killed 146 workers, most of whom were young immigrant women. The tragedy sparked widespread outrage and led to improved safety standards for workers across the country.

5. The Battle of Trenton, a crucial turning point in the Revolutionary War, took place on December 21, 1776. On that day, General George Washington led a surprise attack against Hessian forces stationed in Trenton, New Jersey. The American victory greatly boosted morale and helped turn the tide of the war in favor of the patriots.

In conclusion, December 21 has been a momentous day in New Jersey history, with events ranging from the opening of important transportation infrastructure to significant moments in sports, industry, and warfare. These events continue to shape the state's rich cultural heritage and serve as a reminder of the many moments that have made New Jersey a key player in American history.