Rhodesia

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Rhodesian Army recruitment Bush War 1976

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Internal Settlement

Rhodesia was a country in southern Africa that existed from 1965 to 1979, following a Unilateral Declaration of Independence (UDI) from the United Kingdom. It was not recognized internationally and was considered a rebellious British colony until its reconstitution as Zimbabwe-Rhodesia in 1979, which also failed to gain international recognition. Rhodesia then transitioned to Zimbabwe in 1980 following a lengthy guerrilla war and a series of negotiations.

History

Rhodesia was named after Cecil Rhodes, a British mining magnate and South Africa's colonial figure. The region, initially part of the British South Africa Company territories, became a self-governing British colony in 1923 as Southern Rhodesia. The push for independence was primarily driven by the white minority government, which sought to avoid the implementation of black majority rule, as was happening in other parts of Africa during the decolonization period.

Unilateral Declaration of Independence

On November 11, 1965, the Rhodesian government, led by Prime Minister Ian Smith, issued a Unilateral Declaration of Independence from Britain. This act was deemed illegal by the United Kingdom and the United Nations, leading to international sanctions against Rhodesia. Despite these sanctions, the Rhodesian government maintained control and continued its policies of racial segregation.

Bush War

The refusal to transition to majority rule led to the escalation of the Rhodesian Bush War (also known as the Second Chimurenga) in the late 1960s. This conflict was fought between the Rhodesian government forces and two major African nationalist groups, the Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU), led by Robert Mugabe, and the Zimbabwe African People's Union (ZAPU), led by Joshua Nkomo. The war significantly weakened Rhodesia, both economically and militarily.

Lancaster House Agreement

The conflict and international pressure culminated in the Lancaster House Agreement in 1979, which paved the way for free elections and the end of white minority rule. In 1980, Rhodesia officially became the Republic of Zimbabwe, with Robert Mugabe as its first Prime Minister.

Economy

During its existence, Rhodesia's economy was heavily reliant on agriculture and mining. The country was a major producer of tobacco, which was its most significant export. However, international sanctions over the years severely impacted its economy, leading to increased isolation.

Society and Culture

Rhodesian society was characterized by strict racial segregation, similar to apartheid in South Africa. The white minority, which constituted less than 5% of the population, controlled the government, economy, and the best agricultural land. This led to significant inequalities and tensions between racial groups.

Legacy

The legacy of Rhodesia is complex and controversial. It is remembered by some for its resistance against communist-backed guerrilla forces and by others for its racial policies and refusal to transition to majority rule. The country's struggle and transition to Zimbabwe remain a significant chapter in African decolonization history.