CalEvents:Feb/Feb 7
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for February 7
Date
Event
Significance
February 7, 1926
Carter G. Woodson initiates the first Negro History Week
On this day, historian Carter G. Woodson established the first Negro History Week, which later evolved into Black History Month. The initiative was created to celebrate and promote the study of African-American history, culture, and contributions.
February 7, 1964
Cassius Clay (Muhammad Ali) defeats Sonny Liston
On this day, Cassius Clay (later known as Muhammad Ali) defeated Sonny Liston to win the World Heavyweight Championship. Ali's victory made him a cultural icon and a symbol of Black pride, resistance, and empowerment, especially as he aligned with the Nation of Islam and changed his name shortly after.
February 7, 1986
Jean-Claude Duvalier (Baby Doc) flees Haiti
On this day, Haitian dictator Jean-Claude "Baby Doc" Duvalier fled Haiti after a popular uprising. His departure marked the end of nearly 30 years of Duvalier family rule, which had been marked by repression and corruption. This event led to a new phase of political change and struggle in Haiti.
February 7, 1990
Nelson Mandela released from prison
On this day, Nelson Mandela was released from Victor Verster Prison after 27 years of imprisonment, signaling the beginning of the end of apartheid in South Africa. His release was a turning point in the fight for racial equality and the establishment of a democratic South Africa.
February 7, 2000
Death of Big Pun, influential Afro-Latinx rapper
On this day, Big Pun, one of the most influential Afro-Latinx rappers, passed away. He was the first Latino rapper to go platinum, and his success helped elevate the Afro-Latinx community in the mainstream hip-hop world.
February 7, 2011
Protests erupt in Sudan over rising prices and corruption
On this day, protests erupted in Sudan, following in the wake of the Arab Spring. Sudanese protesters voiced opposition to government corruption, rising prices, and authoritarian rule, laying the groundwork for future protests that ultimately led to political change in the country.
February 7, 2017
Adama Barrow sworn in as President of The Gambia
Adama Barrow was sworn in as President of The Gambia on this day after a tense standoff with the previous president, Yahya Jammeh. Barrow's presidency marked the first democratic transfer of power in the country in over 20 years, signifying a new era for Gambian democracy.