1960, 21 March
South African police kill 69 and injure at least 186 when they opened fire on approximately 300 anti-pass campaign protesters at the black township of Sharpeville.
1975, 21 March
The monarchy in Ethiopia is abolished. Emperor Haile Selassie has been under house arrest since September 1974.
1978, 21 March
Absolute white rule in Rhodesia is brought to an end as three black ministers are sworn into the government.
1990, 21 March
Namibia achieves independence.
