1. On February 21, 1866, Kansas became the first state to pass a law prohibiting discrimination based on race in public places, including hotels and restaurants. This was an important step in the state's history of advocating for civil rights.

2. The town of Medicine Lodge, Kansas was founded on February 21, 1874. The town became well-known in the late 19th century for hosting several important events, including the Medicine Lodge Treaty signing, which helped to bring an end to conflicts between white settlers and Native American tribes in the area.

3. On February 21, 1912, the state of Kansas ratified the 17th Amendment to the United States Constitution, which allowed for the direct election of U.S. senators by the people. This was a significant development in the state's history of progressive politics.

4. The U.S. Army's storied 1st Infantry Division, also known as the "Big Red One," was established on February 21, 1917. The division played a major role in World War I and has continued to serve the United States in conflicts around the world.

5. On February 21, 1965, civil rights activist Malcolm X delivered a speech at the University of Kansas in Lawrence. The speech was notable for its message of black self-determination and its call for unity among all oppressed peoples. Malcolm X's visit to Kansas was part of a larger effort to expand the Civil Rights Movement beyond the southern United States.