CalEvents:Jan/Jan 26

Notable events for January 26

Date

Event

Significance

January 26, 1944

Birth of Angela Davis, African-American activist and scholar

Angela Davis, born on this day, became one of the most prominent activists for civil rights, prison reform, and Black liberation. Her activism, particularly her affiliation with the Black Panther Party and defense of political prisoners, made her an influential figure in the African-American struggle for justice.

January 26, 1956

Martin Luther King Jr.'s house bombed during Montgomery Bus Boycott

On this day, Martin Luther King Jr.'s house was bombed in retaliation for his leadership in the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Despite the attack, King and his followers remained committed to nonviolent resistance, and the boycott became a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement.

January 26, 1978

Death of Hubert Maga, first President of Dahomey (now Benin)

Hubert Maga, the first president of Dahomey (now Benin), passed away on this day. His leadership played a key role in Dahomey’s early post-independence years, navigating the challenges of political instability and regional tensions.

January 26, 1991

Somalia’s Siad Barre regime collapses

On this day, Somali President Siad Barre’s regime collapsed, leading to a prolonged civil war and political fragmentation in Somalia. The event marked the beginning of decades of instability in the country, which continues to impact the Horn of Africa region.

January 26, 2001

Five police officers acquitted in the killing of Amadou Diallo

On this day, five New York City police officers were acquitted in the shooting death of Amadou Diallo, an unarmed African immigrant. The case became a flashpoint for discussions on police brutality, racial profiling, and justice for African-Americans and immigrants in the U.S.

January 26, 2018

Jacob Zuma faces legal challenges over corruption allegations

On this day, former South African President Jacob Zuma faced mounting legal challenges over corruption allegations. His presidency, marked by accusations of graft and misuse of state resources, had long-term implications for South Africa’s political landscape.

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