CalEvents:Aug/Aug 16

Notable events for Aug 16

Date

Event

Significance

August 16, 1897

Death of Bishop Henry McNeal Turner

Bishop Henry McNeal Turner, one of the first African Americans to hold political office during Reconstruction and a key figure in the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, died on this day. He was a vocal advocate for emigration to Africa and Black empowerment through Pan-Africanism.

August 16, 1960

Cyprus gains independence from British colonial rule

On this day, Cyprus gained its independence from British rule. While Cyprus itself is not an African nation, its post-colonial experience resonated with many African countries that had recently gained or were fighting for independence during this era.

August 16, 1972

Jamaica's Merlene Ottey born

On this day, Merlene Ottey, a Jamaican sprinter who would go on to become one of the most successful athletes in track and field history, was born. Her career inspired future generations of sprinters in Jamaica and across the African diaspora.

August 16, 1977

Steve Biko is detained by South African police

On this day, anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko was detained by South African police. He would later die from injuries sustained during his imprisonment, becoming a martyr for the anti-apartheid movement and a global symbol of resistance to racial oppression.

August 16, 1985

Marikana Massacre in South Africa

On this day, 34 striking miners were killed by South African police in what became known as the Marikana Massacre. The incident was the worst case of state violence in post-apartheid South Africa and led to national and international outrage.

August 16, 2005

Commemoration of Day of the African Child begins in Nigeria

On this day, Nigeria officially began commemorating the Day of the African Child, recognizing the challenges faced by African children, particularly in terms of education, health, and human rights. This annual event highlights ongoing efforts to improve the lives of African youth.

August 16, 2019

Sudan's military and civilian opposition sign power-sharing agreement

On this day, Sudan’s ruling military council and the civilian opposition signed a landmark power-sharing agreement following months of protests that led to the ousting of long-time dictator Omar al-Bashir. The agreement aimed to transition the country toward democracy and peace.

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