Steve Biko

17 May 1978

South African police close the investigation into the death of Steve Biko

17 May 1838

SA sugar magnate Sir Hulett is born

17 May 1900

Esther Franks, physician and first woman ophthalmic surgeon to practise in SA, is born in Zurich

17 May 1900

The South African War: The lifting of the siege of Mafeking

17 May 1962

Steytler launches a nationwide protest campaign against the General Laws Amendment Bill

17 May 1971

Melrose House opens as a Museum

17 May 1977

A Whites-only referendum in SWA gives a support on Black majority.

17 May 1995

The TRC is set up by parliament

17 May 1997

SA politician Roelf Meyer resigns.

17 May 1973

Maggie Laubser, SA painter and winner of several awards, dies

17 May 1954

Michael “Muis” Roberts, South Africa’s best jockey is born

17 May 2011

World Telecommunication and Information Society Day.