Transformations in Southern Africa After 1750

Overview of Transformations in Southern Africa After 1750

Previous Discussions

• Focused on the Zulu (east) and Ndebele (west).

Current Focus Areas (Unit 4.2 Political Revolution 1820-1835)

• The Gaza in the northeast.

• The Sotho in the southern interior.

Types of Raiders

• Boers: Frontier farmers from the Cape; captured San for labor, attacked Umtata, seized livestock.

• Kora (Korana): Khoi, San, Tswana; raided for resources, aligned with runaways and deserters from Cape Colony.

• Griqua: Mixed descent; included Khoi, raided for farming resources.

Conflict and Violence (1825 journal extracts)

• Cycle of violence between the Bakamonaki, Mantatees, Griqua, and Bechuanna documented.

The Sotho Kingdom Under Moshoeshoe

• Moshoeshoe provided protection and cattle to refugees; created a defensive settlement at Thaba Bosiu.

• Economy and System: Used the mafisa system, prioritizing loyalty and aid.

• Complex relationships with neighboring groups, including strategic alliances.

Multiculturalism

• Sotho kingdom included various cultural groups while maintaining unique customs and languages.

• Encouraged the arrival of missionaries, enhancing connections with the Cape Colony.

Other Emerging States and Chiefdoms

• Gaza Kingdom: Dominant in southern Africa, leader Shoshangane; significant military and trade power.

• Swazi Kingdom: Led by Sobhuza, using marriage alliances for stability.

• Pedi State: Rebuilt by leader Sekwati for control over trade routes.

• Mpondo Kingdom: Strong resistance against Zulu and acceptance of refugees.

• Southern Tswana: Faced raids, including from Ndebele; established control through defensive strategies.

Map Reference

• Illustrated geographic relationships between raiding groups, chiefdoms, and British colonies in southern Africa.