CalEvents:Feb/Feb 13
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for February 13
Date
Event
Significance
February 13, 1923
The first African-American professional basketball team, the New York Renaissance, founded
On this day, the New York Renaissance, also known as the "Rens," was founded. The team became one of the most successful African-American basketball teams, breaking racial barriers and making significant contributions to the integration of professional sports.
February 13, 1957
Ghana becomes a member of the United Nations
On this day, Ghana, the first African nation to gain independence from colonial rule (in 1957), officially joined the United Nations. This marked Ghana’s entry into the international community and symbolized the growing independence of African nations during the decolonization period.
February 13, 1960
France tests its first atomic bomb in the Sahara Desert, Algeria
On this day, France conducted its first atomic bomb test in the Sahara Desert in Algeria. This event had major consequences for the Algerian people, as it occurred during the Algerian War of Independence, and it brought international attention to French colonialism in Africa.
February 13, 1970
Death of Alfred "Chief" Sam, African-American back-to-Africa leader
Alfred "Chief" Sam, an early African-American back-to-Africa movement leader, passed away on this day. He is known for leading African-Americans to West Africa to establish a settlement in Ghana, promoting the idea of African Americans returning to their ancestral homeland.
February 13, 1991
Nelson Mandela meets with the British Parliament
On this day, Nelson Mandela, newly released from prison, met with the British Parliament to discuss the ongoing fight against apartheid in South Africa. This meeting reflected the growing international support for the anti-apartheid movement and Mandela’s global leadership.
February 13, 2008
Australian government formally apologizes to the Stolen Generations
On this day, the Australian government issued a formal apology to the Indigenous Stolen Generations, children of Aboriginal descent who were forcibly removed from their families. This event highlighted the global issue of racial and colonial injustices faced by Indigenous and African-descended peoples.
February 13, 2014
Protests in Central African Republic against the ongoing civil war
On this day, protests erupted in the Central African Republic over the ongoing civil war, which began in 2012. The war, which involved ethnic and religious conflicts, highlighted the deep political instability and humanitarian crises faced by many African nations.