CalEvents:Mar/Mar 15
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for March 15
Date
Event
Significance
March 15, 1820
First organized group of freed African Americans departs for Liberia
On this day, the first organized group of freed African Americans departed the United States for Liberia. This event marked the beginning of the American Colonization Society's efforts to resettle African Americans in West Africa, leading to the establishment of Liberia.
March 15, 1931
Birth of Shirley Chisholm, first African-American woman elected to U.S. Congress
On this day, Shirley Chisholm, a trailblazing politician and educator, was born. She made history as the first African-American woman elected to the U.S. Congress and later became the first Black woman to run for a major party’s nomination for President of the United States.
March 15, 1960
South African police open fire on protesters in Cato Manor
On this day, South African police opened fire on anti-apartheid protesters in Cato Manor, near Durban, killing several people. This event was part of the escalating violence during the apartheid era and highlighted the repressive measures used against peaceful protests.
March 15, 1977
Death of Fannie Lou Hamer, African-American civil rights activist
On this day, Fannie Lou Hamer, a prominent civil rights activist who fought for voting rights for African Americans, passed away. Hamer's efforts played a crucial role in the Civil Rights Movement, particularly her involvement in the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party.
March 15, 1994
International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda established
On this day, the United Nations established the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda to prosecute those responsible for the genocide that occurred during the Rwandan Civil War. This marked a significant step in seeking justice for the victims of the genocide.
March 15, 2011
Protests in Libya during the Arab Spring intensify
On this day, protests against Muammar Gaddafi’s regime in Libya intensified as part of the Arab Spring. These protests escalated into a civil war that ultimately led to Gaddafi’s ousting, having a significant impact on North Africa and the African diaspora.
March 15, 2015
Protests in South Africa over xenophobic attacks on African immigrants
On this day, protests erupted in South Africa over a series of xenophobic attacks targeting African immigrants. The protests brought attention to the ongoing challenges of migration, economic inequality, and social tensions in South Africa.