CalEvents:May/May 21
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for May 21
Date
Event
Significance
May 21, 1833
Birth of Fannie Barrier Williams, African-American educator and activist
On this day, Fannie Barrier Williams, an influential African-American educator, suffragist, and civil rights activist, was born. She fought for racial and gender equality, particularly in education and employment, and was a prominent voice at the World’s Columbian Exposition in 1893.
May 21, 1927
Birth of Robert Gabriel Mugabe, future leader of Zimbabwe
On this day, Robert Mugabe, the future president of Zimbabwe and leader of the Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU), was born. Mugabe played a significant role in Zimbabwe's liberation from colonial rule and led the country for decades, although his presidency became increasingly controversial.
May 21, 1966
Kwame Nkrumah of Ghana awarded the Lenin Peace Prize
On this day, Kwame Nkrumah, the first president of Ghana and a leading figure in Pan-Africanism, was awarded the Lenin Peace Prize by the Soviet Union. The award recognized Nkrumah’s contributions to the anti-colonial struggle and his efforts to promote peace and unity in Africa.
May 21, 1981
Bob Marley honored with a state funeral in Jamaica
On this day, Bob Marley, the legendary Jamaican reggae musician and Pan-Africanist, was honored with a state funeral in Jamaica. His music and activism inspired millions globally, and his funeral attracted dignitaries and fans from around the world, solidifying his status as a cultural icon.
May 21, 1991
Assassination of Rajiv Gandhi, ally to African nations, in India
On this day, Rajiv Gandhi, former prime minister of India, was assassinated. Gandhi had been an ally to many African nations during his tenure, advocating for anti-apartheid sanctions and strengthening India's ties with Africa through diplomacy and trade.
May 21, 1998
UN Security Council establishes tribunal to prosecute Rwandan genocide perpetrators
On this day, the United Nations Security Council established the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) to prosecute those responsible for the Rwandan Genocide of 1994. The tribunal was a crucial step in seeking justice for the atrocities committed and preventing future genocides.
May 21, 2010
First Africa-India Forum Summit held in Addis Ababa
On this day, the first Africa-India Forum Summit was held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The summit strengthened ties between India and African nations, focusing on economic development, education, and technology, and fostering deeper South-South cooperation.