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What happened on May 10th?
A new leader rose to power in South Africa, ending decades of oppression
Matthew Jones
May 10, 2025
1994 Nelson Mandela Becomes President of South Africa
On May 10, 1994, Nelson Mandela took office as president of South Africa, becoming the country’s first Black leader after the fall of apartheid. His inauguration marked the beginning of a new era of democracy and reconciliation after decades of institutionalized racial segregation. Mandela, who spent 27 years in prison for his anti-apartheid activism, led the nation toward unity and healing, symbolizing the triumph of justice over oppression.
President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela, meets with members of the Congressional Black Caucus at an event at the Library of Congress in October 1994.
🗞️Today’s Headlines
Everything important that’s ever happened on May 10:
2002 — American FBI agent Robert Hanssen received a life sentence after pleading guilty to spying for Russia for over two decades.
1994 — American serial killer John Wayne Gacy was executed at age 52 after being convicted of murdering 33 young men and boys.
1940 — Germany launched a major offensive in World War II, invading Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands.
1940 — Winston Churchill became British prime minister after Neville Chamberlain resigned amid criticism of his handling of the war.
1924 — J. Edgar Hoover became acting director of the FBI, later securing a permanent appointment and leading the agency for nearly five decades.
1774 — Louis XVI ascended to the French throne, with Marie-Antoinette as queen consort at his side.
🎂 Today’s Birthdays
On May 10, we’re singing to:
Donovan (1946) — Scottish singer-songwriter known for hits like “Mellow Yellow” and “Sunshine Superman,” blending folk, pop, and psychedelia.
Bono (1960) — Irish singer and lead vocalist of U2, recognized for his activism and iconic songs such as “With or Without You” and “One.”
Linda Evangelista (1965) — Canadian fashion model celebrated for her work in the 1990s.
🪦Who Died Today?
On May 10, we’re saying goodbye to:
Paul Revere (1818) — American military officer and silversmith remembered for his midnight ride during the American Revolution.
Joan Crawford (1977) — American actress known for her roles in Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? and Mildred Pierce, the latter earning her an Academy Award for Best Actress.
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