Rhodesia

Rhodesia was a historical name used for a region and, later, a self-declared state in southern Africa that corresponded largely to present-day Zimbabwe and, earlier, parts of what is now Zambia.

Rhodesia was a historical name used for a region and, later, a self-declared state in southern Africa that corresponded largely to present-day Zimbabwe and, earlier, parts of what is now Zambia. The name was used in different periods for colonial territories and for the unrecognised state that existed from 1965 to 1979, before the area became Zimbabwe in 1980.

Origins and colonial period

The term Rhodesia was first used by European settlers in the 1890s for territory associated with the British South Africa Company. The region later became Northern and Southern Rhodesia, with Southern Rhodesia developing as a self-governing British colony.

Unilateral Declaration of Independence

In 1965, the government led by Ian Smith declared independence from the United Kingdom without British consent. The resulting state was not internationally recognised and remained under sanctions and political isolation.

Republic and transition to Zimbabwe

Rhodesia declared itself a republic in 1970 and continued under minority rule until 1979. After a transitional arrangement, the territory became the independent state of Zimbabwe in 1980.

Historical significance

Rhodesia is associated with colonial rule, white minority rule, and the Rhodesian Bush War. It remains a significant reference point in discussions of decolonisation and southern African history.