CalEvents:Feb/Feb 2
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for February 2
Date
Event
Significance
February 2, 1839
Birth of Edmund W. Lewis, the first African-American justice of the Louisiana Supreme Court
Edmund W. Lewis, born on this day, became the first African-American to serve on the Louisiana Supreme Court, marking a significant achievement in African-American legal history and representation in the U.S. justice system.
February 2, 1897
Greenville, North Carolina's first Black postmaster appointed
On this day, Greenville, North Carolina, appointed its first Black postmaster, a significant moment in African-American progress in federal employment, particularly in the post-Reconstruction South where racial segregation and discrimination were rampant.
February 2, 1959
Death of Buddy Bolden, pioneering African-American jazz musician
Buddy Bolden, one of the founding fathers of jazz music, passed away on this day. His contributions helped shape the sound of early jazz in New Orleans, laying the foundation for a music genre that became a cornerstone of African-American culture.
February 2, 1962
Jamaica joins the United Nations
Jamaica became a member of the United Nations on this day, following its independence from British colonial rule in 1962. This event marked Jamaica's entry into the international community and was a significant moment in the country's post-colonial development.
February 2, 1990
South African President F.W. de Klerk announces the unbanning of the African National Congress (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, along with the release of Nelson Mandela. This announcement marked the beginning of the end of apartheid in South Africa.
February 2, 1996
Kwame Nkrumah's remains reburied in Ghana
On this day, the remains of Ghana's first president and Pan-Africanist leader, Kwame Nkrumah, were reburied in a specially constructed mausoleum in Accra, Ghana. The reburial symbolized the nation’s recognition of Nkrumah’s lasting legacy as a founding figure of African independence.
February 2, 2006
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf elected Africa’s first female head of state
On this day, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was officially elected as Liberia’s president, making her Africa’s first democratically elected female head of state. Her election marked a historic achievement for women in African politics and leadership.