1973 – Bob Marley Performs for African Liberation Day

On May 19, 1973, Bob Marley and the Wailers performed at a benefit concert in Kingston, Jamaica for African Liberation Day, connecting reggae music to African decolonization efforts. This concert brought together Rastafarians, Pan-Africanists, and activists fighting apartheid, Portuguese colonialism, and white supremacy across the globe. Marley used his platform to call attention to struggles in Zimbabwe, Angola, and South Africa—long before mainstream media cared. His lyrics in songs like \”War\” and \”Zimbabwe\” became anthems of resistance worldwide. The May 19 event cemented Marley’s role as not just a cultural icon, but a political one whose influence transcended borders. It also helped internationalize the observance of African Liberation Day, celebrated later that month on May 25. Marley\’s performance remains a landmark moment in Black international cultural diplomacy.