CalEvents:Apr/Apr 19
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for April 19
Date
Event
Significance
April 19, 1775
Start of the American Revolutionary War
On this day, the American Revolutionary War began with the Battles of Lexington and Concord. African Americans, both enslaved and free, fought on both sides of the conflict. The war ultimately led to the creation of the United States, although slavery persisted, sparking future struggles for African-American freedom and rights.
April 19, 1943
Ella Baker becomes director of branches for the NAACP
On this day, Ella Baker, a prominent African-American civil rights activist, became the director of branches for the NAACP. Her leadership in grassroots organizing would play a critical role in the civil rights movement, empowering local communities to advocate for their rights.
April 19, 1960
South Korea’s April Revolution inspires global movements, including in Africa
On this day, the April Revolution in South Korea led to the ousting of President Syngman Rhee. While not directly related to Pan-African history, this event was part of a global wave of protests and revolutionary movements, inspiring independence and democratic movements in Africa, such as those in Ghana, Kenya, and Algeria.
April 19, 1971
Sierra Leone becomes a republic
On this day, Sierra Leone officially became a republic, with Siaka Stevens serving as the first president. This marked the end of the country’s ties to the British monarchy and was a key milestone in Sierra Leone’s post-colonial development.
April 19, 1980
Robert Mugabe becomes Prime Minister of Zimbabwe
On this day, Robert Mugabe was officially sworn in as the first Prime Minister of independent Zimbabwe. His leadership marked the end of white-minority rule and the beginning of Black-majority governance, although Mugabe’s later years in power would be marked by controversy and economic instability.
April 19, 1994
Rwandan Genocide continues, international community criticized for inaction
On this day, the Rwandan Genocide continued to escalate, with mass killings of Tutsis and moderate Hutus. The international community faced growing criticism for its failure to intervene, even as the genocide claimed hundreds of thousands of lives.
April 19, 2015
Protests erupt in Baltimore after the death of Freddie Gray
On this day, protests erupted in Baltimore, Maryland, following the death of Freddie Gray, an African-American man who died from injuries sustained while in police custody. The protests drew national attention to issues of police brutality and systemic racism in the United States.
April 19, 2019
Protests continue in Sudan after the fall of Omar al-Bashir
On this day, demonstrations continued in Sudan as protesters demanded a transition to civilian rule following the ousting of President Omar al-Bashir. The protests were part of a broader movement for democratic governance in Sudan after decades of authoritarian rule.