CalEvents:May/May 19
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for May 19
Date
Event
Significance
May 19, 1925
Birth of Malcolm X
On this day, Malcolm X, one of the most influential African-American leaders and civil rights activists, was born. Malcolm X's advocacy for Black empowerment, self-defense, and human rights made him a significant figure in African-American history and the global Pan-African movement.
May 19, 1892
Birth of Augusto César Sandino, Nicaraguan revolutionary leader
On this day, Augusto César Sandino, who became a symbol of resistance against U.S. intervention in Latin America, was born. Though not African, his struggle for self-determination in Nicaragua resonated with anti-colonial movements across Africa and the African diaspora.
May 19, 1958
First African Freedom Day celebrated
On this day, African Freedom Day was celebrated for the first time. The day was declared by leaders of various African liberation movements in Accra, Ghana, to commemorate the fight for African independence and unity. It laid the groundwork for the eventual establishment of Africa Day.
May 19, 1961
South Africa withdraws from the British Commonwealth
On this day, South Africa formally withdrew from the British Commonwealth in response to international criticism over its apartheid policies. This marked a significant point in South Africa's increasing isolation from the global community due to its racial segregation policies.
May 19, 1979
Grenada's Maurice Bishop elected prime minister
On this day, Maurice Bishop became the prime minister of Grenada following a revolution that ousted the previous government. Bishop was a key figure in the Pan-African movement in the Caribbean and led efforts to align Grenada with socialist and anti-imperialist ideals.
May 19, 1991
Eritrean independence referendum begins
On this day, Eritrea began its independence referendum, leading to a decisive vote in favor of secession from Ethiopia. The referendum marked the end of decades of war and laid the foundation for Eritrea becoming an independent nation.
May 19, 2000
South African Truth and Reconciliation Commission completes its final report
On this day, the South African Truth and Reconciliation Commission, established to investigate human rights abuses during apartheid, completed its final report. The commission played a key role in promoting national healing and addressing the legacy of apartheid.