CalEvents:Feb/Feb 15
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for February 15
Date
Event
Significance
February 15, 1804
New Jersey begins gradual abolition of slavery
On this day, New Jersey passed legislation that began the gradual abolition of slavery, making it the last northern U.S. state to do so. This marked a significant moment in the broader abolitionist movement in the U.S., particularly for African-Americans in the North.
February 15, 1961
Patrice Lumumba's assassination confirmed
On this day, news of the assassination of Patrice Lumumba, the first democratically elected Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, was confirmed. His death, orchestrated by Belgian and U.S. interests, became a symbol of neo-colonial interference in African leadership.
February 15, 1965
Nat King Cole, African-American singer and pianist, passes away
On this day, Nat King Cole, one of the most celebrated African-American musicians, passed away. Cole broke racial barriers in entertainment, becoming one of the first Black performers to host a national television show in the U.S., contributing to African-American cultural history.
February 15, 1974
Grenada gains independence from Britain
On this day, Grenada gained its independence from British colonial rule. This marked an important moment in the Caribbean decolonization process and the broader struggle for autonomy within the African diaspora in the Caribbean.
February 15, 1991
Nelson Mandela meets F.W. de Klerk to discuss dismantling apartheid
On this day, Nelson Mandela and South African President F.W. de Klerk met to discuss negotiations to end apartheid. Their discussions were a critical step toward South Africa’s transition to democracy and the dismantling of the apartheid regime.
February 15, 2013
South African athletes protest against Oscar Pistorius’ actions
On this day, South African athletes and citizens protested after the arrest of Olympic runner Oscar Pistorius, who was charged with the murder of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp. This event garnered significant international attention, sparking conversations about justice and domestic violence in South Africa.
February 15, 2017
Protests in Zimbabwe over Robert Mugabe's long rule
On this day, protests erupted in Zimbabwe against President Robert Mugabe's decades-long rule. The protests were part of growing unrest that eventually led to Mugabe's resignation later that year, marking a significant political shift in the country.