CalEvents:Mar/Mar 19
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for March 19
Date
Event
Significance
March 19, 1925
Birth of Louis Farrakhan, leader of the Nation of Islam
On this day, Louis Farrakhan, the leader of the Nation of Islam, was born. Farrakhan became a prominent figure in African-American religious and political life, known for his advocacy for Black empowerment, though his leadership has been controversial for his views on various social issues.
March 19, 1965
Martin Luther King Jr. leads marchers to Montgomery, Alabama
On this day, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. led the historic Selma to Montgomery march in support of voting rights for African Americans. This event was pivotal in the passing of the Voting Rights Act later that year.
March 19, 1982
South African government bans ANC-aligned newspapers
On this day, the South African apartheid government banned several newspapers aligned with the African National Congress (ANC) in an effort to suppress anti-apartheid sentiment. This act highlighted the regime’s efforts to control information and silence dissent.
March 19, 1991
Mandela elected Deputy President of the ANC
On this day, Nelson Mandela was elected Deputy President of the African National Congress (ANC), solidifying his role in South Africa’s transition from apartheid to democracy. This leadership position was crucial as Mandela became the face of the anti-apartheid struggle.
March 19, 1999
Julius Nyerere receives Gandhi Peace Prize
On this day, former Tanzanian President Julius Nyerere was awarded the Gandhi Peace Prize for his lifelong dedication to peace, justice, and Pan-Africanism. Nyerere’s leadership in Tanzania and Africa earned him recognition as one of the continent’s most respected figures.
March 19, 2003
Protests in Nigeria against President Olusegun Obasanjo’s government
On this day, protests erupted in Nigeria against President Olusegun Obasanjo’s government over issues of corruption, economic mismanagement, and governance. The protests reflected the broader discontent with political leadership in Nigeria during that period.
March 19, 2015
Protests in South Africa against xenophobic violence targeting African immigrants
On this day, protests occurred in South Africa in response to a wave of xenophobic attacks against African immigrants. The protests highlighted ongoing tensions between locals and immigrants, as well as issues related to economic inequality and migration in South Africa.