CalEvents:Mar/Mar 2
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for March 2
Date
Event
Significance
March 2, 1807
U.S. Congress passes the Act Prohibiting Importation of Slaves
On this day, the U.S. Congress passed a law prohibiting the importation of enslaved people into the United States. This act marked an important step in the eventual abolition of slavery in the U.S., though domestic slavery continued until the Civil War.
March 2, 1867
Congress passes the Reconstruction Act
On this day, the U.S. Congress passed the Reconstruction Act, dividing the South into military districts to enforce civil rights laws and ensure African-American men could vote. This was a key moment in African-American history, shaping post-Civil War Reconstruction and civil rights.
March 2, 1956
Morocco gains independence from France
On this day, Morocco officially gained its independence from French colonial rule. This marked a significant moment in the decolonization of Africa and positioned Morocco as a leading nation in North Africa’s post-colonial development.
March 2, 1961
John F. Kennedy announces the founding of the Peace Corps
On this day, U.S. President John F. Kennedy formally announced the establishment of the Peace Corps, a program that sent volunteers to countries, including many in Africa, to promote education and development, strengthening U.S. ties with newly independent African nations.
March 2, 1977
Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie dies in captivity
On this day, Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie, revered by many in the African diaspora, particularly in the Rastafarian movement, passed away while under house arrest following a coup. His death symbolized the end of a key era in Ethiopian and Pan-African history.
March 2, 1990
Nelson Mandela elected Deputy President of the African National Congress (ANC)
On this day, Nelson Mandela was elected Deputy President of the ANC, reinforcing his leadership role in South Africa’s transition from apartheid and setting the stage for his eventual presidency.
March 2, 2004
Jean-Bertrand Aristide ousted as President of Haiti
On this day, Haitian President Jean-Bertrand Aristide was forced to resign and leave the country amidst political unrest. Aristide’s ousting reflected Haiti's ongoing struggles with political instability and its impact on the African diaspora in the Caribbean.