Salisbury was established as a predominantly European settlement under the auspices of the British South Africa Company, which was chartered by Cecil Rhodes and served as a vehicle for British imperial expansion into Southern Africa. The foundation of Salisbury was part of a broader strategy to develop British influence and control over the region, which was rich in natural resources and agricultural potential. The location was selected primarily for its accessibility to trade routes and proximity to a reliable water supply, making it suitable for settlement and future development. The town evolved rapidly, attracting settlers from various parts of Europe, particularly Britain, and soon became the administrative heart of Southern Rhodesia.

In the early years, the growth of Salisbury was closely tied to agricultural developments, with many settlers farming the surrounding lands. Infrastructure projects, including roads and railways, were initiated to support the economic growth of the settlement. Additionally, the establishment of education and health facilities laid the groundwork for a more structured community. The name Salisbury was derived from the city of Salisbury in England, reflecting the colonial practice of naming new settlements after places in the mother country.

Salisbury underwent significant transformations throughout its history, especially during the turbulent political changes in the region. Post-independence, the city was renamed Harare in 1982, marking the transition of Rhodesia to Zimbabwe. This change was symbolic of the end of colonial rule and the beginning of a new era for the nation. Today, Harare stands as the capital city of Zimbabwe, embodying a rich cultural history that reflects both its colonial past and its indigenous heritage.