CalEvents:Dec/Dec 16
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for December 16
Date
Event
Significance
December 16, 1838
Battle of Blood River in South Africa
The Battle of Blood River was fought between the Zulu Kingdom and Afrikaner Voortrekkers. It became a symbol of Afrikaner nationalism and was later celebrated as a holiday in South Africa, but the conflict also highlighted the resistance of African kingdoms to colonial encroachment.
December 16, 1966
UN Security Council adopts Resolution 232, imposing sanctions on Rhodesia
The UN imposed mandatory sanctions on Rhodesia (modern-day Zimbabwe) following its unilateral declaration of independence from Britain in 1965. This was a key step in the international community's efforts to end white-minority rule in Rhodesia.
December 16, 1971
Bahrain becomes a member of the United Nations
Bahrain’s membership in the UN signified the end of British colonial influence in the Persian Gulf, paralleling similar decolonization movements across Africa during the 1960s and 1970s.
December 16, 1985
South African Congress of Trade Unions (SACTU) forms COSATU
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) was formed, becoming the largest trade union federation in South Africa. It played a crucial role in the fight against apartheid, advocating for workers' rights and social justice.
December 16, 1993
South Africa commemorates Day of Reconciliation
The Day of Reconciliation was introduced as a public holiday in South Africa, marking the efforts to foster unity and healing after apartheid. It symbolized the shift from racial conflict to nation-building, embracing both Afrikaner and liberation histories.
December 16, 1998
Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) delivers final report in South Africa
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission, led by Archbishop Desmond Tutu, delivered its final report on human rights abuses committed during apartheid. This report was crucial in documenting the atrocities of apartheid and promoting reconciliation in post-apartheid South Africa.
December 16, 2010
Mauritius marks 50th anniversary of the 1960 riot
Mauritius commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Port Louis race riots, which highlighted deep racial tensions between the Creole and Indian communities. These events marked a critical point in the country’s post-colonial struggle for racial harmony.