CalEvents:Apr/Apr 21
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for April 21
Date
Event
Significance
April 21, 1836
Sam Houston defeats Mexican forces at the Battle of San Jacinto
On this day, the Texian Army, led by Sam Houston, defeated Mexican forces at the Battle of San Jacinto. While not directly related to African history, the battle's outcome contributed to the expansion of the United States, affecting the status of slavery and African Americans in Texas, which would become a major issue during the American Civil War.
April 21, 1960
Brazil’s new capital, Brasília, is inaugurated
On this day, Brazil inaugurated its new capital, Brasília. While the event is centered in South America, it marked a moment of development for Afro-Brazilian communities as urbanization efforts influenced migration patterns and economic opportunities, affecting African diaspora populations in Brazil.
April 21, 1966
Ethiopia officially becomes a member of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
On this day, Ethiopia officially joined UNESCO, which provided greater opportunities for cultural and educational development within the country. Ethiopia’s participation in UNESCO reflects its historical significance as one of the oldest nations in Africa and its role in the preservation of African heritage.
April 21, 1994
Rwandan Genocide continues with international calls for intervention
On this day, the Rwandan Genocide continued to escalate, with ongoing mass killings of Tutsis and moderate Hutus. The international community's slow response to intervene drew widespread criticism as the genocide continued to claim lives, highlighting the global failure to prevent atrocities in Rwanda.
April 21, 1996
U.S. Congress passes the Church Arson Prevention Act
On this day, in response to a series of arson attacks targeting African-American churches, the U.S. Congress passed the Church Arson Prevention Act. The law aimed to provide protection and justice for Black communities and underscored the ongoing struggles against racially motivated violence in the U.S.
April 21, 2016
Death of Prince, iconic African-American musician
On this day, legendary African-American musician Prince passed away. Prince was a cultural icon whose influence extended across music, fashion, and social activism. His groundbreaking work challenged racial and gender norms and inspired generations within the African-American and global communities.
April 21, 2019
Sudanese protesters demand civilian rule after Omar al-Bashir's fall
On this day, mass protests continued in Sudan as demonstrators called for the establishment of a civilian-led government following the ousting of President Omar al-Bashir. The protests marked a critical moment in Sudan's transition from decades of authoritarian rule toward a democratic future.