Desmond Tutu

7 October 1931

Archbishop Mpilo Desmond Tutu, chairman of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, is born in Klerksdorp, Transvaal

7 October 1978

Rhodesian Prime Minister Ian Smith visits the United States, challenging officials to support his plan for the transition of government in the country.

7 October 1987

Dr Cedric Phatudi, Lebowa Chief Minister, dies

7 October 1991

Mourners are shot at Ntuli’s funeral in Thokoza

7 October 2001

US invades Afghanistan

7 October 2003

One-fifth of SA’s military infected with HIV virus, so HIV positive people are no longer accepted into their ranks

7 October 2004

14 Year old girl is convicted in Pietermaritzburg High Court

7 October 1964

It is announced in Rawalpindi that Pakistan has decided to cut ties with South Africa