CalEvents:Feb/Feb 22
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for February 22
Date
Event
Significance
February 22, 1925
Birth of Edward W. Brooke, first African-American elected to the U.S. Senate post-Reconstruction
On this day, Edward W. Brooke was born. He became the first African-American to be elected to the U.S. Senate after Reconstruction, serving Massachusetts from 1967 to 1979. His election was a major milestone in African-American political representation.
February 22, 1960
Ghanaian President Kwame Nkrumah survives assassination attempt
On this day, Kwame Nkrumah, the first president of independent Ghana and a key figure in the Pan-African movement, survived an assassination attempt. Nkrumah’s leadership was critical in promoting African unity and independence during the decolonization period.
February 22, 1974
Samuel Byck attempts to assassinate U.S. President Richard Nixon
On this day, Samuel Byck, a would-be assassin, attempted to hijack a plane to crash it into the White House to assassinate U.S. President Richard Nixon. Byck's actions highlighted tensions in American society, though his plan failed and he was killed during the hijacking attempt.
February 22, 1987
Angolan government and UNITA rebels sign the Bicesse Accords
On this day, the Angolan government and UNITA rebels signed the Bicesse Accords in an attempt to end Angola's civil war. The accords marked a temporary ceasefire in one of Africa’s longest and most devastating post-independence conflicts.
February 22, 1991
Nelson Mandela elected Deputy President of the African National Congress (ANC)
On this day, Nelson Mandela was elected Deputy President of the ANC, solidifying his role as a key leader in the anti-apartheid movement. His leadership in the ANC paved the way for the eventual dismantling of apartheid in South Africa.
February 22, 2009
Protests in Madagascar against President Marc Ravalomanana
On this day, protests erupted in Madagascar against President Marc Ravalomanana’s rule. The demonstrations led to his eventual resignation, marking a significant moment in Madagascar’s political history and governance.
February 22, 2017
Protests in South Africa over university fees and education reform
On this day, widespread protests erupted in South Africa, with students demanding the government address rising university fees and education reform. These protests were part of the #FeesMustFall movement, which became a major issue in South African politics and student activism.