CalEvents:Feb/Feb 5
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for February 5
Date
Event
Significance
February 5, 1866
Congress overrides President Andrew Johnson’s veto of the Freedmen’s Bureau Bill
On this day, the U.S. Congress overrode President Andrew Johnson’s veto of the Freedmen’s Bureau Bill, which aimed to help formerly enslaved African Americans transition to freedom by providing food, housing, education, and legal assistance. The bill was a crucial part of Reconstruction efforts in the South.
February 5, 1958
Clifton R. Wharton Sr. becomes first African-American U.S. Ambassador to a European country
Clifton R. Wharton Sr. was appointed as the U.S. Ambassador to Norway on this day, becoming the first African-American to represent the United States in a European country. His appointment was a significant achievement for African-Americans in foreign diplomacy.
February 5, 1962
Malcolm X gives a speech at the Militant Labor Forum in New York City
On this day, Malcolm X delivered a speech at the Militant Labor Forum in New York, discussing African-American liberation, human rights, and the need for racial equality. His speech was part of his broader efforts to inspire African-Americans and the African diaspora to unite in the struggle for freedom and justice.
February 5, 1986
First Pan-African Film Festival opens in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
The first Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (FESPACO) opened on this day. The festival became a major platform for showcasing African cinema, highlighting the stories and voices of African filmmakers and promoting African culture to a global audience.
February 5, 1990
Nelson Mandela released from prison
On this day, Nelson Mandela, leader of the African National Congress (ANC), was released from prison after 27 years. His release marked a critical turning point in South Africa's struggle to end apartheid and led to his eventual presidency and the establishment of a multiracial democracy.
February 5, 2003
Colin Powell delivers address to U.N. on Iraq's weapons of mass destruction
On this day, U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell, the first African-American to hold the position, delivered a controversial speech to the United Nations, arguing for military intervention in Iraq. His speech played a key role in justifying the U.S. invasion of Iraq, though later investigations questioned the accuracy of the intelligence presented.
February 5, 2018
Cyril Ramaphosa replaces Jacob Zuma as leader of the African National Congress
On this day, Cyril Ramaphosa replaced Jacob Zuma as the leader of the African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa. Ramaphosa's leadership marked a new era for the ANC as he focused on anti-corruption efforts and economic reforms in the wake of Zuma’s scandal-ridden tenure.