1963

1963 was a year in the Gregorian calendar, falling within the twentieth century. It occurred during the Cold War, the political confrontation between the United States and the Soviet Union. That year saw major developments concerning nuclear weapons control and changes of government in many countries.

The year was also marked by a period when many African countries achieved or were newly gaining independence from colonial rule, with efforts underway to establish continental bodies linking the new states.

The Cold War and nuclear weapons

Following the Cuban missile crisis of the previous year, 1963 saw the signing of a treaty limiting nuclear weapons testing in the upper atmosphere, oceans, and outer space. The treaty was initiated by the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Soviet Union. A direct communications line was also established between the leaders of the two major powers, intended to reduce the risk of accidental escalation.

The United States

In November 1963, United States President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas. His successor, Lyndon B. Johnson, was sworn in the same day. That year also saw major demonstrations in the United States over civil rights for Black people, including a large march held in Washington.

Africa and Somalia

In 1963, the Organisation of African Unity was founded in Addis Ababa as a body bringing together the independent African states. In the Horn of Africa, tensions escalated that year over territories inhabited by Somalis lying outside the borders of the Somali Republic, particularly after the northern region of Kenya was incorporated into Kenya. This sparked hostility between Somalia and its neighbour.