Historical Events tagged with "south africa"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Accidents & Tragedies

Crash of South African Airways Flight 295

November 28th, 1987 37 years ago

South African Airways Flight 295, a Boeing 747-200, crashed into the Indian Ocean during its flight from Taipei to Johannesburg, resulting in the loss of all 159 people on board. The aircraft was flying for several hours when it reportedly experienced a fire in the cockpit, leading to an attempted emergency landing. Tragically, the plane went down in the ocean before rescue efforts could reach them. This incident represents one of the deadliest aviation disasters involving the South African Airways.

Continue Reading
Religion & Philosophy

Desmond Tutu Leads Anglican Diocese of Cape Town

September 7th, 1986 38 years ago

Desmond Tutu assumed leadership of the Anglican Diocese of Cape Town, becoming the first black bishop in this prominent position. This groundbreaking event signified a shift in traditional church leadership and highlighted the ongoing struggle against apartheid in South Africa. Desmond Tutu's appointment was marked by a ceremony at St. George's Cathedral, where he emphasized the need for peace and reconciliation in a divided nation.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Desmond Tutu Receives Nobel Peace Prize

October 16th, 1984 40 years ago

Desmond Tutu was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his unwavering commitment to nonviolent resistance against apartheid in South Africa. Tutu, a prominent Anglican bishop and social rights activist, played a pivotal role in the struggle for racial justice. The Nobel Committee recognized his efforts to foster reconciliation in a divided nation, which inspired many across the globe. Tutu's recognition came during a significant period in South African history, as the country grappled with systemic discrimination and violence.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Deadly Church Street Car Bombing in Pretoria

May 20th, 1983 41 years ago

A car bomb, planted by the UMkhonto we Sizwe, exploded on Church Street in Pretoria, South Africa, killing 19 individuals and injuring 217 others. This attack occurred amidst the broader conflict against the apartheid regime, targeting a present-day military section that was associated with the government. The explosion was a significant event during the anti-apartheid struggle, illustrating the violent confrontations between liberation movements and the state.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

South Africa Bombs ANC Headquarters in London

March 14th, 1982 43 years ago

The South African government conducted a bomb attack on the African National Congress (ANC) headquarters located in London. This covert operation aimed to target the ANC, which was a significant opponent of the apartheid regime in South Africa. The bombing was carried out during the night, causing damage but no reported casualties. The objective behind this aggressive act was to disrupt the ANC's operations and deter its activities designed to undermine the apartheid government.

Continue Reading
Sports & Recreation

South Africa's Rugby Union Tour Begins in Gisborne

July 22nd, 1981 43 years ago

The first game of the 1981 South Africa rugby union tour was played at Gisborne, New Zealand. This match featured the South African team against a New Zealand provincial side. Controversy surrounded the tour due to South Africa's apartheid policies, igniting protests and debates on sportsmanship versus political ethics. The match was attended by local fans eager to see international rugby, despite looming tensions off the field.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

ANC's Call to Action from Nelson Mandela

June 10th, 1980 44 years ago

The African National Congress (ANC), under the leadership of imprisoned Nelson Mandela, issued a powerful call for resistance against apartheid in South Africa. The message stressed the importance of unity and mobilization among South Africans, encouraging them to fight against the oppressive regime. Despite being incarcerated on Robben Island since 1962, Mandela's voice resonated widely, showcasing his role as a symbol of the anti-apartheid movement. This call to action aimed to galvanize support and inspire a new wave of activism within the country.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Unexplained Flash Near Prince Edward Islands

September 22nd, 1979 45 years ago

A bright flash resembling a nuclear explosion was recorded near the Prince Edward Islands. Observed by US satellites, the phenomenon was initially thought to be a nuclear test. However, despite extensive investigations by various agencies, no definitive cause was ever determined, leaving the nature of the event shrouded in mystery.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Venda Achieves Self-Government in South Africa

September 13th, 1979 45 years ago

The homeland of Venda was granted independence by South Africa, making it an independent entity in a controversial move. This created a separate governance structure under the leadership of Chief Patrick Mphephu, even though it was not recognized internationally. The South African government aimed to legitimize separate development policies by establishing nominal autonomy for designated homelands during the apartheid regime.

Continue Reading