1. In 1861, Alabama seceded from the Union and joined the Confederacy, leading to its involvement in the Civil War. May 21 was an important date as it marked the ratification of Alabama's secession ordinance by the state's convention, formally joining the Confederacy.

2. On May 21, 1881, the first shipment of iron ore from Birmingham, Alabama was sent to Pennsylvania for processing. This marked the beginning of a booming steel industry in Alabama, which would become a major economic driver in the state.

3. The Tuskegee Airmen, a group of African American pilots who served during World War II, were trained at Tuskegee Army Air Field in Alabama. On May 21, 1945, Tuskegee Airman Lieutenant Wendell O. Pruitt was shot down over Germany and killed in action, representing a tragic loss for the pioneering group.

4. The University of Alabama School of Medicine was founded on May 21, 1945. The school has since become a major center for medical research and education, and has produced numerous prominent physicians and scientists.

5. May 21st is recognized as Alabama World War II Veterans Day, honoring the many Alabamians who served during the war. The day was established in 2013 through a proclamation by Governor Robert Bentley, recognizing the sacrifices and contributions of Alabama's World War II veterans.