CalEvents:Apr/Apr 1
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for April 1
Date
Event
Significance
April 1, 1868
Hampton University founded in Virginia
On this day, Hampton University, a historically Black college, was founded in Virginia. It became one of the first institutions of higher education for freed slaves and played a crucial role in African-American education during Reconstruction and beyond.
April 1, 1960
Togo gains independence from France
On this day, Togo gained its independence from French colonial rule, becoming one of the earliest African nations to achieve self-governance during the decolonization wave of the 1960s. Sylvanus Olympio became Togo's first president.
April 1, 1984
Marvin Gaye, African-American singer, tragically shot and killed
On this day, legendary African-American singer Marvin Gaye was tragically shot and killed by his father. Gaye was a trailblazer in soul music and a prominent voice in addressing social and racial issues through his music, including hits like "What's Going On."
April 1, 1999
Nunavut, Canada’s Inuit territory, established
On this day, Nunavut was officially created as a separate territory in Canada, marking the first time that the Indigenous Inuit people gained formal recognition and self-governance over their ancestral lands. This event is significant for indigenous rights and resonates with struggles for autonomy and self-determination in Africa and its diaspora.
April 1, 2002
Launch of the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council
On this day, the African Union’s Peace and Security Council (PSC) was officially launched. The PSC was designed to address and manage conflicts in Africa, reflecting the continent’s efforts to create homegrown solutions to its security challenges and promote peace across member states.
April 1, 2011
Protests in Ivory Coast against disputed election results
On this day, protests intensified in Ivory Coast following the contested 2010 presidential elections between Laurent Gbagbo and Alassane Ouattara. The protests and ensuing conflict reflected the deep political divisions in the country, which eventually led to Gbagbo’s capture and Ouattara’s presidency.
April 1, 2017
Protests in South Africa calling for President Jacob Zuma’s resignation
On this day, mass protests occurred across South Africa demanding the resignation of President Jacob Zuma over allegations of corruption. The protests were part of a larger movement for political accountability and transparency in post-apartheid South Africa.