CalEvents:Feb/Feb 1
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for February 1
Date
Event
Significance
February 1, 1865
President Abraham Lincoln signs the 13th Amendment
On this day, President Abraham Lincoln signed the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery in the United States. The amendment was a crucial step toward the emancipation of enslaved African-Americans and the long struggle for civil rights.
February 1, 1902
Birth of Langston Hughes, African-American poet and leader of the Harlem Renaissance
Langston Hughes, born on this day, became one of the most influential figures of the Harlem Renaissance. His poetry, essays, and plays reflected the African-American experience and played a key role in shaping the cultural identity of African Americans in the 20th century.
February 1, 1960
Greensboro sit-ins begin in North Carolina
On this day, four African-American students from North Carolina A&T State University began a sit-in at a segregated Woolworth’s lunch counter in Greensboro, North Carolina. The protest sparked a wave of sit-ins across the country and became a significant event in the Civil Rights Movement.
February 1, 1964
President Jomo Kenyatta declares Kenya a republic
On this day, President Jomo Kenyatta formally declared Kenya a republic, following the country's independence from British colonial rule in 1963. Kenyatta’s leadership in the independence struggle cemented his role as the founding father of Kenya.
February 1, 1970
Black Panther leader Huey Newton released from prison
On this day, Huey P. Newton, co-founder of the Black Panther Party, was released from prison after charges against him were dropped. His release was a major victory for the Black Panther Party and the broader African-American struggle for justice and equality.
February 1, 1990
South African President F.W. de Klerk announces the unbanning of the ANC
On this day, South African President F.W. de Klerk announced the unbanning of the African National Congress (ANC) and other anti-apartheid organizations. This marked a turning point in South Africa’s history, paving the way for Nelson Mandela’s release and the end of apartheid.
February 1, 1999
Kofi Annan delivers his first speech as U.N. Secretary-General
On this day, Kofi Annan, the first Black African to serve as U.N. Secretary-General, delivered his first speech. His leadership of the United Nations was marked by a focus on human rights, global peace, and African development, making him one of the most influential African leaders on the world stage.