Politics & War:
* Bangladesh Liberation War: The war for the independence of Bangladesh from Pakistan begins. India supports the movement, leading to a war between India and Pakistan.
* End of the Vietnam War: The Paris Peace Accords are signed, leading to the withdrawal of US troops from Vietnam.
* Nixon visits China: President Richard Nixon's historic visit to China marks a major shift in US foreign policy.
* The Troubles in Northern Ireland: The "Bloody Sunday" massacre in Derry intensifies the conflict between Catholics and Protestants.
Technology & Culture:
* The first email is sent: Ray Tomlinson sends the first email, revolutionizing communication.
* The first microprocessor is created: Intel releases the 4004 chip, paving the way for the personal computer revolution.
* Apollo 14 lands on the moon: Alan Shepard and Edgar Mitchell become the third and fourth humans to walk on the moon.
* The first jumbo jet, the Boeing 747, enters service: This innovation revolutionizes air travel.
* "Shaft" is released: The Blaxploitation film becomes a cultural phenomenon.
* "Imagine" by John Lennon is released: The song becomes a global anthem for peace.
Other Significant Events:
* The Great Smog of London: A severe smog event kills thousands in London, highlighting the dangers of air pollution.
* The World Trade Center opens: The twin towers become iconic symbols of New York City.
* The death of Salvador Dali: The surrealist painter dies at the age of 84.
* The death of Pablo Casals: The renowned cellist and conductor passes away at the age of 96.
This list is by no means exhaustive, but it highlights some of the most important and influential events of 1971. You can explore further for more details on these events and others that occurred during this pivotal year.