CalEvents:Jan/Jan 18
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for January 18
Date
Event
Significance
January 18, 1803
Birth of Peter Salem, African-American Revolutionary War hero
Peter Salem, an African-American soldier who fought in the Revolutionary War, was born on this day. He is best known for his role in the Battle of Bunker Hill, where his bravery helped change the tide of the conflict, making him an enduring figure in African-American history.
January 18, 1962
President Nkrumah of Ghana survives an assassination attempt
On this day, Kwame Nkrumah, the first President of Ghana and a key figure in the Pan-African movement, survived an assassination attempt. Nkrumah’s survival allowed him to continue his leadership of Ghana and his advocacy for African unity and liberation from colonialism.
January 18, 1964
Zanzibar gains independence and becomes a republic
Zanzibar officially became a republic on this day, following a revolution that overthrew the Sultan. The event played a significant role in the broader decolonization of East Africa and later led to the union with Tanganyika to form Tanzania.
January 18, 1971
Louis Armstrong performs in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo)
Legendary African-American jazz musician Louis Armstrong performed in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo) on this day. His performance was part of cultural diplomacy efforts and reflected the influence of African-American culture on the African continent.
January 18, 1977
Roots premieres on ABC television
The television adaptation of Alex Haley's *Roots: The Saga of an American Family* premiered on this day. The series, which traced the African-American experience back to slavery, had a profound cultural impact, fostering a greater understanding of African-American history and identity.
January 18, 1991
International protests against apartheid in South Africa
On this day, protests were held around the world to put pressure on the South African apartheid regime. International resistance to apartheid played a critical role in ending institutionalized racial segregation in South Africa.
January 18, 2011
Tunisia's President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali resigns
On this day, Tunisian President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali resigned amid widespread protests during the Arab Spring. His resignation sparked further uprisings across North Africa and the Middle East, influencing political change in many African countries.