1945, 26 June
General Jan Smuts, elder statesman amongst the delegates to the signing of the World Security charter (which establishes the United Nations) has described its aims: "It provides for a peace with teeth; for the unity of peace-loving peoples against future aggressors; for a united front amongst the greatest powers, backed by the forces of smaller powers as well."
1952, 26 June
Blacks, Coloured, and Indians join forces in South Africa for the official start of the Defiance Campaign - a non-violent protest against segregationist laws. By refusing bail, and insisting on jail sentences, they hoped to disrupt the Apartheid government.
1955, 26 June
Three years after the start of the Defiance campaign, anti-Apartheid activists hold a Congress of the People in a Johannesburg suburb, Kliptown. Delegates ratify the Freedom Charter. The document sets out the demand for a multi-racial democratically elected government, equal opportunities, and a redistribution of land. Only about 50 of the 3,000 people attending are white, including British Anglican missionary, Father Trevor Huddleston. The South African governments response - police raid, armed with Sten guns and rifles with affixed bayonets.
1976, 26 June
After 162 years under British rule the Seychelles Islands achieve independence.
