CalEvents:Aug/Aug 8
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for Aug 8
Date
Event
Significance
August 8, 1963
W. E. B. Du Bois becomes a citizen of Ghana
On this day, prominent African-American sociologist and civil rights activist W. E. B. Du Bois officially became a citizen of Ghana. This act symbolized Du Bois' deep commitment to Pan-Africanism and his support for African independence movements.
August 8, 1974
President Richard Nixon announces resignation
On this day, U.S. President Richard Nixon announced his resignation due to the Watergate scandal. This was significant for African Americans, as the political landscape of the 1970s was influenced by civil rights struggles, and Nixon’s "law and order" policies had disproportionately impacted Black communities.
August 8, 1983
Thomas Sankara becomes Prime Minister of Burkina Faso
On this day, Thomas Sankara was appointed Prime Minister of Burkina Faso (then Upper Volta). Sankara would later become president and transform the country with his revolutionary socialist policies, promoting Pan-Africanism, self-reliance, and anti-imperialism.
August 8, 1985
Kenya introduces one-party state rule
On this day, the government of Kenya introduced legislation that made the country a one-party state under the ruling Kenya African National Union (KANU) party. This marked a significant shift in Kenya’s political structure, limiting political pluralism and sparking opposition movements.
August 8, 1992
The National Black Independent Political Party (NBIPP) disbands
On this day, the National Black Independent Political Party, which had been formed to advance the political interests of African Americans, officially disbanded. The party’s dissolution reflected challenges in organizing a separate Black political agenda in a two-party U.S. system.
August 8, 2003
OAU peacekeeping forces deployed to Liberia
On this day, the Organization of African Unity (OAU) deployed peacekeeping forces to Liberia as part of efforts to end the Second Liberian Civil War. This deployment underscored the OAU’s role in regional conflict resolution and support for African peace processes.
August 8, 2010
Kenya approves a new constitution
On this day, Kenya approved a new constitution through a national referendum. The new constitution aimed to decentralize power, address historical injustices, and improve governance in the country. This was a significant step toward democratic reform in Kenya.