Final answer:
There isn't a direct notable historical event on the exact date of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority's founding, January 16, 1920, but it occurred during an era of significant cultural and intellectual development among African Americans.
Step-by-step explanation:
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated was found on January 16, 1920. No notable historical event is mentioned on this exact date that coincides with the founding of Zeta Phi Beta; however, the date is in close proximity to several significant events in American history due to its placement during the era of the Harlem Renaissance and just after World War I.
The founding of Zeta Phi Beta at Howard University is a reflection of the broader cultural and intellectual awakening that characterized the early 20th century for African Americans, encapsulated by the emergence of organizations and figures such as Hurst Adams, Jesse Owens, and Duke Ellington which were part of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, a collaborative organization of nine historic Black Greek-letter organizations. Howard University, with its pivotal role in Black higher education, paved the way for the formation of these organizations, fostering leaders across various sectors, seen in Alpha Kappa Alpha's distinguished members like Kamala Harris and Toni Morrison.