Historical Events tagged with "southern africa"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Natural Disasters

Tropical Storm Domoina Strikes Southern Mozambique

January 28th, 1984 41 years ago

Tropical Storm Domoina made landfall in southern Mozambique, unleashing torrential rains that resulted in the deaths of 214 individuals. The severe flooding that ensued was among the most catastrophic the region had ever experienced. With widespread destruction of infrastructure and homes, communities were devastated, leading to large-scale humanitarian efforts to provide relief and recovery. The storm's impact highlighted the vulnerability of coastal areas to extreme weather events.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Rhodesia Becomes a Republic, Rejects British Crown

March 2nd, 1970 55 years ago

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.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Bechuanaland becomes the Republic of Botswana

September 30th, 1966 58 years ago

Bechuanaland officially declared its independence, transforming into the Republic of Botswana. This change marked a significant transition from British protectorate status to a sovereign nation. Upon independence, Botswana adopted a democratic framework and began establishing its governmental institutions. Seretse Khama, the first president of Botswana, played a pivotal role in the event, leading the country into a new era. The celebration of independence was marked by national pride and optimism for the future development of Botswana.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Matabeleland Grants Rudd Concession to Rhodes

October 30th, 1888 136 years ago

On this day, leaders of Matabeleland, particularly King Lobengula, granted the Rudd Concession to agents of Cecil Rhodes. This concession allowed for mineral exploration and the establishment of British control over Zimbabwean resources. The agreement was significant in the expansion of British colonial interests in southern Africa and set the stage for increased tensions with local communities.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Bechuanaland Protectorate Established by UK

March 31st, 1885 139 years ago

The United Kingdom formally established the Bechuanaland Protectorate in southern Africa, recognizing its control over the region to manage local conflicts and prevent Boer expansion. This move was motivated by the desire to maintain British influence in the region amid growing regional tensions. The protectorate served to safeguard British interests in southern Africa.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Foundation of the Republic of Stellaland

July 26th, 1882 142 years ago

In 1882, the Republic of Stellaland was founded by British settlers in Southern Africa. This short-lived republic was established in response to conflicts over land and resources in the region, and it aimed to create a more organized governance for settlers. Governed by a provisional government, the republic represented an assertion of British influence amidst local African territories, resulting in significant tensions.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Amda Seyon I Begins Southern Campaigns

February 18th, 1332 693 years ago

Amda Seyon I of Ethiopia launched military campaigns into the southern Muslim provinces, seeking to expand his empire and consolidate power. In this endeavor, he aimed to involve the diverse Muslim communities in the region under his rule, leading to significant military confrontations. The campaigns were characterized by strategic territorial expansion and efforts to spread Christianity amongst the Muslim populations. Amda Seyon's ambitions would reshape the socio-political landscape of Ethiopia and its neighboring regions.

Continue Reading