CalEvents:Feb/Feb 16
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for February 16
Date
Event
Significance
February 16, 1923
Bessie Smith makes her first recording
On this day, legendary African-American blues singer Bessie Smith made her first recording, "Downhearted Blues." Smith went on to become one of the most famous blues artists of all time, and her success paved the way for future generations of African-American musicians.
February 16, 1957
Ghana gains independence from British colonial rule
On this day, Ghana, led by Kwame Nkrumah, officially declared its independence from Britain, becoming the first African nation to gain independence from colonial rule. This event marked the beginning of decolonization in Africa and inspired other countries to fight for their own freedom.
February 16, 1961
Formation of the African National Congress (ANC) military wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe
On this day, the ANC in South Africa officially formed its military wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe, to resist apartheid through armed struggle. Nelson Mandela played a key role in the establishment of this military wing, marking an escalation in the anti-apartheid movement.
February 16, 1968
Death of Henry Armstrong, African-American boxing champion
Henry Armstrong, one of the greatest boxers of all time and the only fighter to hold world titles in three different weight classes simultaneously, passed away on this day. Armstrong’s success challenged racial barriers in sports and became a source of pride for African Americans during segregation.
February 16, 1979
Ayatollah Khomeini assumes power in Iran, impacting African nations
On this day, Ayatollah Khomeini assumed power in Iran following the Iranian Revolution. Although not directly related to Africa, this event had significant geopolitical consequences, as many African nations had ties to Iran, and the revolution inspired other movements in the Global South.
February 16, 1990
Nelson Mandela released from Victor Verster Prison
On this day, Nelson Mandela, the iconic anti-apartheid leader, was released from Victor Verster Prison in South Africa after 27 years of imprisonment. His release was a key turning point in the fight to end apartheid and set the stage for democratic elections.
February 16, 2018
Cyril Ramaphosa becomes President of South Africa
On this day, Cyril Ramaphosa was sworn in as President of South Africa, following the resignation of Jacob Zuma. Ramaphosa’s presidency marked a shift toward tackling corruption and economic reform in post-apartheid South Africa.