CalEvents:Jul/Jul 15
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for Jul 15
Date
Event
Significance
July 15, 1929
Birth of Martinique writer and philosopher Frantz Fanon
On this day, Frantz Fanon, a prominent intellectual and revolutionary from Martinique, was born. His works, especially *The Wretched of the Earth*, influenced anti-colonial movements in Africa and the Caribbean, making him a key figure in Pan-African thought and the global fight against oppression.
July 15, 1953
First African-American elected to the Texas State Legislature since Reconstruction
On this day, Henry B. Gonzalez was elected to the Texas State Legislature, marking the first time since Reconstruction that an African-American held a legislative office in Texas. This was a significant moment in African-American political history, as it reflected growing Black political power in the U.S. South.
July 15, 1964
Malawi becomes a one-party state under Hastings Banda
On this day, Malawi, under the leadership of Hastings Banda, was declared a one-party state. While Banda had led the country to independence, his rule increasingly became authoritarian, reflecting the challenges of post-colonial governance in Africa.
July 15, 1971
UN calls for apartheid sanctions against South Africa
On this day, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution calling for sanctions against South Africa's apartheid government. This marked a significant moment in the global anti-apartheid movement and highlighted international efforts to pressure South Africa to end racial segregation and oppression.
July 15, 1987
Death of Thomas Sankara, president of Burkina Faso
On this day, Thomas Sankara, the revolutionary leader and president of Burkina Faso, was assassinated. Sankara was known for his radical policies, including land redistribution, nationalization of industries, and empowering women. His legacy continues to inspire African revolutionary movements.
July 15, 1991
Nelson Mandela visits Cuba and meets Fidel Castro
On this day, Nelson Mandela visited Cuba and met with Fidel Castro, thanking him for Cuba’s support in the fight against apartheid. The visit highlighted the international solidarity between African liberation movements and socialist countries during the Cold War era.
July 15, 2006
Launch of the African Standby Force (ASF)
On this day, the African Union officially launched the African Standby Force (ASF), designed to respond to conflicts and crises across the continent. The ASF's creation was a major step in enhancing African-led peacekeeping and conflict resolution efforts.