This Day, That Year: What Happened on April 21

The Ancient Roman Empire Was Founded

On this day in 753 BC, the foundations of one of the most influential civilizations in history were laid as Rome was founded. This ancient city, nestled along the banks of the Tiber River, would eventually grow into the heart of a vast empire that spanned continents and shaped the course of Western civilization.

Legend has it that Rome was founded by Romulus and Remus, twin brothers who were raised by a she-wolf and later became the city's first rulers. While the exact origins of Rome are shrouded in myth and legend, archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited since at least the 8th century BC.

Initially a small settlement of farmers and traders, Rome gradually grew in size and importance, establishing itself as a powerful city-state in the region of Latium. Its strategic location allowed it to control trade routes and expand its influence over neighboring territories.

Over the centuries, Rome evolved from a monarchy to a republic, with a system of government that allowed for elected officials and a system of checks and balances. This republican form of government would later serve as a model for modern democracies.

Under the leadership of ambitious generals and statesmen, Rome embarked on a path of conquest, eventually expanding its borders to encompass much of the Mediterranean basin. The Roman Empire, as it came to be known, became synonymous with power, wealth, and cultural achievement.

Rome's contributions to art, architecture, law, language, and engineering continue to shape the world today. Its legacy lives on in the form of iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Roman Forum, as well as in the principles of justice, governance, and citizenship that it helped to establish.

Prince's Untimely Passing Leaves Music World in Mourning

The music world was rocked in 2016 by the untimely passing of the legendary musician and megawatt star, Prince. At the age of 57, Prince left behind a legacy that transcended generations and musical genres. His sudden departure sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and left fans mourning the loss of one of the most influential artists of all time.

Born Prince Rogers Nelson on June 7, 1958, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Prince showed prodigious musical talent from a young age. He mastered multiple instruments, including the guitar, piano, and drums, and his distinctive falsetto voice set him apart from his peers. Throughout his career, Prince pushed the boundaries of music, blending funk, rock, R&B, and pop to create his signature sound.

Prince rose to fame in the late 1970s with his album "Prince" and solidified his status as a musical icon with hits like "Purple Rain," "When Doves Cry," and "Kiss." His flamboyant style, electrifying stage presence, and boundary-pushing lyrics captivated audiences around the world.

Beyond his music, Prince was known for his enigmatic persona and fiercely guarded privacy. He often shunned interviews and eschewed conventional publicity tactics, preferring to let his music speak for itself. Despite his reluctance to engage with the media, Prince's impact on popular culture was undeniable, and his influence extended far beyond the confines of the music industry.

Prince's sudden death on April 21, 2016, sent shockwaves through the world. He was found unresponsive in an elevator at his Paisley Park compound in Chanhassen, Minnesota, and was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. The exact cause of his death was later revealed to be an accidental overdose of the opioid fentanyl, highlighting the tragic consequences of addiction.

In the wake of Prince's passing, tributes poured in from fans, fellow musicians, and public figures, all mourning the loss of a true musical innovator. His contributions to music and culture continue to resonate, and his legacy remains as vibrant and enduring as ever. Though he may be gone, Prince's music lives on, ensuring that his indelible mark on the world will never be forgotten.