CalEvents:May/May 7
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for May 7
Date
Event
Significance
May 7, 1809
Birth of Mary Seacole, Jamaican nurse and heroine
On this day, Mary Seacole, a Jamaican-born nurse and businesswoman who helped treat soldiers during the Crimean War, was born. Seacole's contributions were often overlooked in favor of her contemporary Florence Nightingale, but she remains a key figure in Black history for her pioneering work in medicine.
May 7, 1950
African National Congress (ANC) organizes May Day strike in South Africa
On this day, the ANC, along with the South African Indian Congress and Communist Party of South Africa, organized a nationwide strike to protest racial oppression and apartheid policies in South Africa. The May Day strike marked a key moment in the growing resistance against apartheid.
May 7, 1969
UN calls for sanctions against apartheid South Africa
On this day, the United Nations called for mandatory sanctions against apartheid South Africa, urging international governments to take action against the regime. This was a pivotal moment in the global anti-apartheid movement, increasing pressure on South Africa to dismantle its racist policies.
May 7, 1978
Robert Mugabe elected leader of Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU)
On this day, Robert Mugabe was elected as the leader of ZANU, a key political party fighting for independence in Zimbabwe. Mugabe's leadership helped shape the struggle for liberation from British colonial rule, leading to Zimbabwe's independence in 1980.
May 7, 1992
Rodney King trial sparks Los Angeles riots
On this day, riots erupted in Los Angeles after the acquittal of four police officers involved in the beating of Rodney King, an African-American man. The riots exposed the deep racial and social tensions in the U.S., bringing issues of police brutality and racial inequality to the forefront.
May 7, 2010
Ghana initiates oil production under Jubilee Oil Field
On this day, Ghana began commercial oil production from the Jubilee Oil Field, marking a significant development in the country's economy. This discovery of oil had the potential to transform Ghana’s economic landscape, though concerns about resource management and corruption arose.