Rhodesia Becomes a Republic, Rejects British Crown
March 2nd, 1970
March 2nd, 1970

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.
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