B H This Day in Black History

March 21

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March 21, 1960

Sharpeville Massacre

On March 21, 1960, South African police opened fire on a crowd of Black protesters in Sharpeville who were peacefully demonstrating against pass laws. Sixty-nine people were killed and 180 wounded. The massacre sparked international condemnation and became a pivotal moment in the anti-apartheid struggle.

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People: Robert Sobukwe

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