CalEvents:Apr/Apr 5
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for April 5
Date
Event
Significance
April 5, 1951
Ethel Waters becomes the first African-American woman to star in her own TV show
On this day, Ethel Waters became the first African-American woman to star in her own television show, *The Ethel Waters Show*. This milestone was significant in breaking racial barriers in the American entertainment industry and advancing the representation of African Americans on screen.
April 5, 1968
Riots and protests erupt across U.S. after Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination
On this day, riots and protests erupted in more than 100 cities across the United States following the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. the previous day. The unrest reflected the deep-seated anger and frustration of African Americans regarding systemic racism and inequality, further intensifying the Civil Rights Movement.
April 5, 1989
Jesse Jackson wins Michigan Democratic primary
On this day, civil rights leader Jesse Jackson won the Michigan Democratic primary during his second campaign for the U.S. presidency. His victory energized African-American voters and demonstrated the growing political power of the Black community in the U.S.
April 5, 1994
Nelson Mandela begins campaign for South Africa's first democratic election
On this day, Nelson Mandela officially began his campaign for South Africa's first democratic election, which would take place later that month. His campaign symbolized the end of apartheid and the beginning of a new era of democracy and equality in South Africa.
April 5, 1999
U.S. Senate apologizes for slavery
On this day, the U.S. Senate formally passed a resolution apologizing for slavery and racial segregation laws. The apology marked an important acknowledgment of the historical injustices faced by African Americans, though it was symbolic and not accompanied by reparations.
April 5, 2005
Protests in Zimbabwe against Robert Mugabe’s government
On this day, widespread protests occurred in Zimbabwe against the government of President Robert Mugabe. The protests focused on economic mismanagement, political repression, and human rights abuses, reflecting growing discontent with Mugabe’s long rule.
April 5, 2017
South African opposition parties call for President Jacob Zuma’s resignation
On this day, opposition parties in South Africa launched protests and a parliamentary motion calling for the resignation of President Jacob Zuma amid corruption allegations. The protests were part of broader efforts to address political corruption and improve governance in post-apartheid South Africa.