CalEvents:Oct/Oct 4
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for October 4
Date
Event
Significance
October 4, 1966
Lesotho gains independence from Britain
On this day, Lesotho gained its independence from Britain. Formerly known as Basutoland, the small landlocked kingdom in Southern Africa achieved sovereignty under the leadership of King Moshoeshoe II, marking an important moment in the decolonization of Southern Africa.
October 4, 1977
South African anti-apartheid organizations banned
On this day, the South African apartheid government banned several key anti-apartheid organizations, including the Black Consciousness Movement and its affiliates, following the death of Steve Biko. The bans further escalated resistance against apartheid, both within South Africa and internationally.
October 4, 1993
Battle of Mogadishu (Black Hawk Down) begins in Somalia
On this day, U.S. forces launched a mission in Mogadishu, Somalia, to capture warlord Mohamed Farrah Aidid. The operation resulted in intense fighting, leading to the downing of two Black Hawk helicopters and significant casualties. The event highlighted the complexity of foreign intervention in African conflicts.
October 4, 2004
Wangari Maathai awarded the Nobel Peace Prize
On this day, Kenyan environmental and political activist Wangari Maathai was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her work in sustainable development, democracy, and peace. She became the first African woman to receive the prize, recognized for her leadership in the Green Belt Movement and advocating for women's rights and environmental conservation in Africa.
October 4, 2017
US-Niger ambush
On this day, a U.S. military unit and Nigerien forces were ambushed by militants in Niger, resulting in the deaths of four American soldiers. This attack brought attention to U.S. military operations in Africa and highlighted the growing militant threats in the Sahel region.