CalEvents:Mar/Mar 29
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for March 29
Date
Event
Significance
March 29, 1799
Birth of John Russwurm, one of the first African-American newspaper editors
On this day, John Russwurm, co-founder of *Freedom's Journal*, the first African-American owned and operated newspaper in the United States, was born. Russwurm was a prominent abolitionist and advocate for African-American rights, and his work laid the groundwork for Black journalism.
March 29, 1957
Ghana becomes a member of the United Nations
On this day, Ghana officially became a member of the United Nations after gaining independence from British colonial rule. As the first sub-Saharan African country to achieve independence, Ghana’s membership marked a significant moment in African diplomacy and decolonization.
March 29, 1976
Patrice Lumumba University established in Moscow
On this day, the Patrice Lumumba University was officially opened in Moscow, named after the Congolese independence leader. The university was created to provide higher education to students from developing countries, particularly in Africa, and became a symbol of Soviet support for African liberation movements.
March 29, 1987
Death of Ewart Beckford, also known as U-Roy, pioneer of Jamaican reggae and dancehall music
On this day, Ewart Beckford, better known as U-Roy, a pioneer of Jamaican reggae and dancehall music, passed away. U-Roy’s innovative style of toasting influenced generations of musicians and helped shape reggae’s global appeal, impacting the African diaspora’s cultural expression.
March 29, 2002
Zimbabwe holds controversial presidential election
On this day, Zimbabwe held a contested presidential election that resulted in President Robert Mugabe's re-election amid widespread accusations of vote-rigging and violence. This event deepened Zimbabwe’s political and economic crisis and attracted international criticism.
March 29, 2014
Protests in Egypt against government repression
On this day, mass protests erupted in Egypt against the government’s increasingly repressive policies following the military coup that ousted President Mohamed Morsi. These protests highlighted the ongoing political instability and struggles for democracy in post-Arab Spring Egypt.
March 29, 2018
Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, anti-apartheid activist, passes away
On this day, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, a key figure in the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa, passed away. Her activism, resilience, and contributions to the fight for justice and equality made her a controversial but highly respected figure in African history.