January 14 in South Africa is a day marked by a range of notable events that reflect the country’s diverse historical landscape.
These historical events happened on 14 January
PLEASE NOTE: The third-party content below is shared on our platform for journalistic purposes. Swisher Post, its parent company, partners and affiliates shall not be held liable for any consequence that arises from the journalistic duties performed in sharing this content.
From the escalation of a major revolt to the birth of a renowned artist, this day encapsulates the many facets of South Africa’s past. This article provides insights into five such events that occurred on January 14, each contributing to the nation’s rich historical tapestry.
1) Escalation of Violence in German South West Africa (1904)
On 14 January 1904, the Herero Revolt in German South West Africa (now Namibia) reached a new peak. The post offices at Waldau and the Waterberg were destroyed, and violence erupted at Omarasa, north of Waterberg.
The Ovaherero conquered the Waterberg military station, marking a significant escalation in the revolt.
2) Britain’s Proposal to Sell Arms to South Africa (1971)
A controversial proposal emerged on 14 January 1971, when Britain suggested selling arms to South Africa at the Conference of Heads of State of the British Commonwealth of Nations in Singapore.
This proposal was met with extensive debate and opposition, reflecting the contentious international view of South Africa’s political climate during the apartheid era.
3) Proposed Amendment to the Population Registration Act (1981)
The South African government proposed an amendment to the Population Registration Act on 14 January 1981. This amendment aimed to create a central fingerprint register for South Africans across racial lines and issue a uniform identity document to all races. The original Act, passed in 1950, had defined racial groups relatively loosely.
4) Death of Hendrik Andries Hanekom (1952)
On 14 January 1952, Hendrik Hanekom, a pioneer of Afrikaans professional theatre, passed away in Strand, Cape Town. Hanekom, along with his wife Mathilda, significantly contributed to the promotion of folk theatre and met the needs of Afrikaans theatregoers. His work also helped to create theatre awareness in rural areas.
5) Birth of Judas Mahlangu (1951)
Judas Mahlangu, a prominent South African graphic artist, was born on 14 January 1951, in Brakpan, Gauteng. Starting his career at the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) in 1982, Mahlangu became a member of the Soweto Art Society and is known for his mono- and polychromatic etchings.