January 4 in South Africa has been marked by a series of significant events that have shaped the country’s history in various fields.
These historical events happened on 4 January
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From political resolutions to scientific discoveries, this date commemorates important milestones that have contributed to South Africa’s rich and diverse heritage.
1) Labour Party Represents Coloured Community (1983)
On 4 January 1983, the Labour Party (LP) adopted a resolution to represent the Coloured community. This decision was taken at its annual conference held in Eshowe, Natal.
The resolution marked a significant step in the party’s efforts to engage more inclusively with the racial dynamics of South African politics, particularly during a period characterised by strict racial segregation under apartheid.
2) Flag of Union of South Africa on Prince Edward Island (1948)
A notable event in South Africa’s territorial history occurred on 4 January 1948, when the National Flag of the Union of South Africa was hoisted on Prince Edward Island.
This island, part of a duo including Marion Island, lies about 1,900 km southeast of Cape Town and covers an area of 47 square kilometres. The event symbolised South Africa’s territorial claims in the sub-Antarctic region during a period of expanding national interests.
3) Protest Against Pass Laws in Langa (1953)
On this day in 1953, hundreds of black South Africans assembled in the Langa township outside Cape Town to protest against the new pass laws.
Dora Tamana, a member of the ANC Women’s League and later a founding member of the Federation of South African Women (FEDSAW), delivered a powerful speech, declaring the women’s refusal to carry these passes.
This event was a pivotal moment in the resistance against apartheid’s oppressive policies.
4) Death of Frederick Courteney Selous (1917)
Frederick Courteney Selous, a famous traveller, hunter, writer, and naturalist, met his demise in Beho-Beho, Tanganyika, on 4 January 1917.
Selous was shot in the head during a bush war against German forces and died instantly. He is remembered as one of the greatest hunters in the region of Southern Africa, leaving behind a legacy of adventure and exploration.
5) Birth of Raymond Arthur Dart (1893)
On 4 January 1893, anthropologist and professor Raymond Arthur Dart was born in Brisbane, Australia. Dart is renowned for discovering the Taung Child skull fossil near Taung in North West, South Africa.
In 1922, he became the head of the newly established Department of Anatomy at Wits University in South Africa, marking a significant contribution to the field of paleoanthropology.