CalEvents:Jul/Jul 2
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for Jul 2
Date
Event
Significance
July 2, 1964
U.S. Civil Rights Act of 1964 signed into law
On this day, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The act was a landmark in the African-American Civil Rights Movement, significantly advancing the fight for racial equality in the United States.
July 2, 1966
France tests nuclear weapons in Algeria
On this day, France conducted a nuclear weapons test in Algeria’s Sahara Desert, sparking global protests and condemnation. This event brought attention to the environmental and political impacts of nuclear testing in Africa and highlighted issues of post-colonial exploitation of African land for military purposes.
July 2, 1973
Bahamas gains independence from Britain
On this day, the Bahamas officially gained independence from Britain, joining the ranks of other Caribbean nations with significant populations of African descent that had freed themselves from European colonial rule. This was part of the broader post-colonial movement in the African diaspora.
July 2, 1990
Nelson Mandela speaks in front of the United Nations General Assembly
On this day, Nelson Mandela, recently freed from prison, addressed the United Nations General Assembly. His speech called for continued international support in the fight against apartheid and highlighted the global significance of South Africa’s struggle for freedom.
July 2, 1994
Rwanda's capital, Kigali, captured by Rwandan Patriotic Front
On this day, the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), led by Paul Kagame, captured the capital city, Kigali, during the Rwandan Civil War. This marked a critical turning point in ending the Rwandan Genocide, which had claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of Tutsi and moderate Hutu.
July 2, 2008
International Criminal Court (ICC) opens investigation into war crimes in Darfur
On this day, the International Criminal Court (ICC) opened an investigation into war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the Darfur conflict in Sudan. The ICC's involvement was seen as a major step toward international justice and accountability in Africa.
July 2, 2013
Protests against Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi intensify
On this day, mass protests against Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi intensified, eventually leading to his ousting by the military. The protests were part of the broader Arab Spring movement that swept across North Africa, leading to significant political changes in the region.