Rhodesia Becomes a Republic, Rejects British Crown

March 2nd, 1970

March 2nd, 1970

Rhodesia Becomes a Republic, Rejects British Crown
How Long Ago?

55 years, 13 days ago

Location

Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe)

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • Ian Smith
Links & References
Tags

Rhodesia Becomes a Republic, Rejects British Crown

Rhodesia formally declared itself a republic, breaking its remaining ties with the British monarchy. This declaration was made on March 2, 1970, under the leadership of Prime Minister Ian Smith. The move came amidst ongoing tensions and conflicts in the region, as Rhodesia sought to assert its independence following unilateral declarations that began in the 1960s. The republic's establishment demonstrated a significant shift in governance for the predominantly white-minority rule, impacting the political landscape of southern Africa.

Ian Smith was a key figure in the declaration.

The move followed years of tensions with Britain.

Rhodesia faced international condemnation and sanctions.

This led to an increase in armed conflict in the region.

What Happened?

Rhodesia's declaration as a republic marked a pivotal point in its tumultuous history, as it attempted to solidify its independence from British oversight and consolidate power within its government. The unilateral declaration of independence (UDI) from Britain in 1965 by Prime Minister Ian Smith set the stage for this transition, as the white-minority government sought to maintain control amid growing international pressure for reform and majority rule. The 1970 declaration signified a further step in Rhodesia's defiance against British colonial governance and reflected Smith's commitment to maintaining white supremacy and political dominance despite the rising tide of black nationalism and liberation movements in the region.

The republic's formation was met with widespread condemnation from various global entities, including the United Nations, which imposed sanctions against Rhodesia, amplifying its international isolation. Additionally, this declaration highlighted the escalating tensions between local guerrilla movements, such as the Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU) and Zimbabwe African People's Union (ZAPU), and the Rhodesian government. As the republic took shape, the nation struggled with ongoing armed conflict, as these movements sought to overturn the racial policies in place and achieve equality in governance.

Through the establishment of a republican status, Rhodesia sought to solidify its claim to political legitimacy and national sovereignty, but it only intensified domestic unrest and set the stage for further conflict. The subsequent years would see a protracted war for liberation, leading eventually to international intervention and negotiations that would ultimately conclude with majority rule and the establishment of Zimbabwe in the late 1970s.

Why Does it Matter?

The declaration of Rhodesia as a republic illustrates the complexities of colonial legacies and the struggles for racial equality. It highlights the resistance of the white-minority government to international pressures and sets the groundwork for a protracted conflict that would reshape the region. The aftermath saw the rise of Zimbabwe as an independent nation, showcasing the transformative effects of this declaration on southern African politics.

Discover More Historic Events from March 2nd

Military & Warfare

Russian Forces Capture Kherson City

March 2nd, 2022 3 years ago

Russian forces successfully captured the city of Kherson during their invasion of Ukraine. This event marked a significant strategic gain for Russia, as Kherson became the only regional capital in Ukraine under Russian control. Following the capture, a military-civilian administration began to establish authority in the region, imposing Russian governance and affecting the local population.

Continue Reading
Science & Technology

New Elements Moscovium, Tennessine, and Oganesson Added

March 2nd, 2017 8 years ago

The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry announced the official naming of three newly discovered elements—Moscovium (Mc), Tennessine (Ts), and Oganesson (Og)—during a conference in Moscow, Russia. This decision finalized the recognition of these elements that signify significant advances in the field of chemistry and synthetic element discovery. Scientists from various institutions contributed to the research leading to the discovery and identification of these heavy elements, derived from collaborations between American and Russian scientists.

Continue Reading
Natural Disasters

Southern U.S. Tornado Outbreak Causes Casualties

March 2nd, 2012 13 years ago

A significant tornado outbreak struck a vast area of the Southern United States and extended into the Ohio Valley region, leading to widespread devastation and 40 confirmed fatalities. The violent storms generated multiple tornadoes, with many rated as EF2 and EF3 on the Enhanced Fujita scale, which classified them as significant threats. The affected states included Indiana, Kentucky, Alabama, and Tennessee, and the event occurred during the late winter season when tornado activity can be particularly severe due to meteorological conditions. Emergency services were mobilized, and numerous communities faced lengthy recovery periods.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Al-Qaeda's Ashoura Massacre in Iraq

March 2nd, 2004 21 years ago

A devastating attack occurred in Baghdad during the Ashoura religious observance. As thousands of Shiite Muslims gathered to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, Al-Qaeda orchestrated a suicide bombing, resulting in the deaths of approximately 170 individuals and injuries to over 500 others. The bombing targeted a crowded street filled with participants, highlighting the violent sectarian tensions in Iraq following the invasion.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Operation Anaconda Launches in Afghanistan

March 2nd, 2002 23 years ago

Operation Anaconda began as a major U.S.-led military offensive targeting Taliban and al-Qaeda forces in eastern Afghanistan. This operation took place in the Shahi-Kot Valley and was notable for its use of air power and ground troops in a coordinated assault. The military objective was to eliminate remaining Al-Qaeda fighters and disrupt Taliban operations following the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan. Over the course of the operation, approximately 500 enemies were reported killed, along with 11 Western troop fatalities, showcasing the intensity of the conflict and the challenges faced by U.S. forces.

Continue Reading
Space Exploration

Galileo Discovers Liquid Ocean on Europa

March 2nd, 1998 27 years ago

Data received from the Galileo spacecraft showed evidence that Jupiter's moon Europa may possess a vast ocean of liquid water beneath its icy surface. This groundbreaking discovery was pivotal in the search for extraterrestrial life. The findings were based on observations regarding Europa's magnetic field and its interaction with Jupiter's environment, leading scientists to conclude the presence of a subsurface ocean that may harbor conditions suitable for life. This revelation sparked intense interest in Europa, positioning it as a prime target for future exploration.

Continue Reading