CalEvents:Oct/Oct 24
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for October 24
Date
Event
Significance
October 24, 1945
United Nations (UN) established
On this day, the United Nations was officially established following World War II. The UN has played a key role in supporting African decolonization, human rights, and peacekeeping missions across the continent. Many African nations later joined the UN as they gained independence.
October 24, 1964
Zambia gains independence from Britain
On this day, Zambia, led by Kenneth Kaunda, gained independence from British colonial rule. Zambia's independence was part of the wave of decolonization in Africa and Kaunda became one of Africa's prominent leaders, advocating for African unity and socialism.
October 24, 1979
U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Andrew Young resigns
On this day, Andrew Young, the first African-American to serve as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, resigned due to controversy surrounding his unauthorized meeting with a representative of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). Young’s tenure focused on African issues and the global South, particularly his support for African decolonization movements.
October 24, 1984
First Black Miss America, Vanessa Williams, crowned
On this day, Vanessa Williams was crowned as the first African-American Miss America. This milestone in U.S. history was seen as a symbol of breaking racial barriers in American culture, though controversy surrounding Williams followed, reflecting ongoing racial tensions in the United States.
October 24, 2004
Wangari Maathai receives the Nobel Peace Prize
On this day, Kenyan environmentalist Wangari Maathai became the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize for her work in environmental conservation and sustainable development. Her Green Belt Movement had a profound impact on environmental advocacy and women's empowerment in Africa.
October 24, 2014
Nigerian government declares ceasefire with Boko Haram
On this day, the Nigerian government announced a ceasefire with the extremist group Boko Haram. Though the truce was short-lived, it was a significant moment in Nigeria’s ongoing struggle with terrorism and highlighted the challenges of maintaining peace and security in the region.