Historical Events tagged with "zimbabwe"

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.

Politics & Government

Zimbabwe Established with Canaan Banana as President

April 18th, 1980 44 years ago

The Republic of Zimbabwe officially emerged as a sovereign state, with Canaan Banana sworn in as its first President. This transition marked a significant shift from British colonial rule and the unrecognized state of Rhodesia. As the country's currency, the Zimbabwean dollar, replaced the Rhodesian dollar, it symbolized a new economic direction. The event took place in Harare, the capital, amid celebrations of national independence and the end of a protracted liberation struggle against colonial rule.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Robert Mugabe becomes Zimbabwe's first prime minister

March 4th, 1980 45 years ago

Robert Mugabe led his party, the Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF), to a commanding victory in the first official elections since the country's independence from British colonial rule. Held in Zimbabwe, the elections concluded with Mugabe receiving over 63% of the vote, reflecting widespread support for his policies and vision for a newly independent Zimbabwe. This election marked a significant milestone in African decolonization and the political landscape of the region, as Zimbabwe transitioned from minority white rule to majority rule under Mugabe's leadership.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

First Black-Led Government Takes Power in Rhodesia

June 1st, 1979 45 years ago

The first black-led government in Rhodesia was established when the Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU) and the Zimbabwe African People's Union (ZAPU) united to form a coalition. This momentous occasion marked an end to nearly a century of white minority rule. The new coalition government represented a crucial shift in the political landscape of the region, signaling the beginning of a new era for the country's governance and the fight for sovereignty. The leadership was predominantly composed of figures who had been at the forefront of the liberation struggle, emphasizing the aspirations of the majority black population for self-determination.

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

Executions of Three Rebels Prompt Backlash

March 6th, 1968 57 years ago

Three rebels, part of the African nationalist movement in Rhodesia, were executed by the government, marking the first executions since the nation's Unilateral Declaration of Independence (UDI). This action drew swift international condemnation, shocking many nations and leading to heightened tensions regarding Rhodesia's internal affairs and its relationship with colonial powers. The executions represented a significant escalation in the conflict regarding Rhodesian nationalism and the fight against colonial rule.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Formation of the Zimbabwe African National Union

August 8th, 1963 61 years ago

The Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU) formed as a result of internal divisions within the Zimbabwe African People's Union (ZAPU). Prominent figures like Ndabaningi Sithole led this breakaway faction with the intent of representing the interests of black Zimbabweans more effectively. The split introduced new dynamics into the nationalist movement, emphasizing armed struggle as a necessary approach to combating colonial rule. This division marked a pivotal moment in the fight for independence in Zimbabwe.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Annexation of Southern Rhodesia by Britain

September 12th, 1923 101 years ago

Southern Rhodesia was officially annexed by the United Kingdom after a referendum that showed support for continued British control. This decision followed the unification of various colonial territories in Southern Africa and aimed to provide a more stable governance structure. The annexation marked a significant shift in the administration of the region, which would later become Zimbabwe.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Ambush of British South Africa Company Patrol

December 4th, 1893 131 years ago

A patrol of 34 soldiers from the British South Africa Company was ambushed and annihilated by more than 3,000 Matabele warriors along the Shangani River in Matabeleland. The attack highlighted the fierce resistance of the Matabele against colonial encroachment and underscored the volatility of relations between indigenous peoples and colonial forces during this period.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Foundation of Salisbury in Rhodesia

September 12th, 1890 134 years ago

Salisbury, now known as Harare, was founded by the British South Africa Company as a result of the colonization efforts in Southern Africa. The settlement was established as a base for administration and commerce, serving as the capital for the newly formed colony of Southern Rhodesia. The site was chosen for its strategic advantages, including access to trade routes and fertile land. This founded town would grow to become an important economic center and political hub in the region.

Continue Reading