CalEvents:Feb/Feb 8
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for February 8
Date
Event
Significance
February 8, 1944
Birth of Harry Edwards, sociologist and civil rights activist
Harry Edwards, born on this day, became a prominent sociologist and activist, advocating for African-American athletes’ rights and social justice. He founded the Olympic Project for Human Rights, which led to the famous Black Power salute by Tommie Smith and John Carlos at the 1968 Olympics.
February 8, 1968
Orangeburg Massacre in South Carolina
The Orangeburg Massacre occurred on this day when police opened fire on African-American students protesting segregation at a bowling alley in Orangeburg, South Carolina. Three students were killed, and dozens were injured, highlighting the violent response to civil rights activism in the South.
February 8, 1974
Grenada gains independence from Britain
On this day, the Caribbean island nation of Grenada gained its independence from Britain. Grenada’s independence was part of the broader decolonization movement in the Caribbean and Africa, as countries sought to reclaim their sovereignty from European colonial powers.
February 8, 1986
Oprah Winfrey becomes the first African-American woman to host a nationally syndicated talk show
On this day, Oprah Winfrey became the first African-American woman to host a nationally syndicated talk show, *The Oprah Winfrey Show*. Her success on television made her a cultural icon and one of the most influential African-American figures in media.
February 8, 1990
Nelson Mandela and F.W. de Klerk begin formal negotiations to end apartheid
On this day, Nelson Mandela and South African President F.W. de Klerk began formal negotiations to end apartheid. These talks paved the way for Mandela’s release from prison and the eventual dismantling of the apartheid system, leading to democratic elections in 1994.
February 8, 1996
Death of Delano Lewis, African-American civil rights leader and educator
Delano Lewis, a prominent civil rights leader, educator, and former U.S. Ambassador to South Africa, passed away on this day. His work in civil rights and education left a lasting impact on African-American communities and the fight for racial justice.
February 8, 2014
Protests in Senegal against constitutional changes
On this day, large-scale protests erupted in Senegal over proposed constitutional changes that would have allowed President Abdoulaye Wade to extend his term. The protests led to Wade’s eventual defeat in elections, reinforcing Senegal’s democratic process and political stability in West Africa.