A Short History of Lesotho

Lesotho, a small, mountainous country completely surrounded by South Africa, has a unique history defined by its struggle for survival, resilience against colonial rule, and modern political and economic challenges. Its history spans from prehistoric settlements to the formation of the Basotho nation, colonization by the British, and eventual independence in 1966.

Pre-Colonial Era: Early Settlements and the Rise of the Basotho Nation

San (Bushmen) and Early Inhabitants

The earliest known inhabitants of present-day Lesotho were the San (Bushmen), who lived in the region thousands of years ago. They were skilled hunter-gatherers, leaving behind rock art that still exists in the mountains today.

The Arrival of the Bantu (c. 16th Century)

Around the 16th century, Bantu-speaking groups, particularly the Sotho-Tswana people, migrated into the region. These groups were farmers and herders, bringing with them iron tools, agriculture, and organized chiefdoms.

Moshoeshoe I and the Formation of the Basotho Kingdom (19th Century)

The most significant figure in Lesotho’s early history is King Moshoeshoe I. In the early 19th century, during a period of regional conflict known as the Mfecane (or Difaqane), the Zulu expansion under Shaka Zulu caused massive upheavals, forcing many smaller groups to flee.

Moshoeshoe I, a minor chief from the Bafokeng clan, united various Sotho-speaking clans under his leadership.

He established Thaba Bosiu, a natural fortress, which provided protection against both Zulu and Boer invaders.

Moshoeshoe encouraged diplomacy, engaging with both African groups and European missionaries, particularly the French missionaries, who helped him develop modern administration and literacy.

By the mid-19th century, the Basotho Kingdom was a recognized power in the region, but tensions with neighboring groups, particularly the Boers, escalated.

Colonial Rule: Wars with the Boers and British Protectorate (1850s–1966)

Conflicts with the Boers (1850s–1860s)

During the mid-1800s, Dutch-speaking Boer settlers (Afrikaners) from South Africa sought to expand their territories, leading to conflict with the Basotho.

The Free State-Basotho Wars (1858–1868): The Boers, from the Orange Free State, launched attacks to seize Basotho land. Moshoeshoe and his people fiercely resisted but lost significant portions of land.

Seeing the threat from the Boers, Moshoeshoe requested British protection to preserve the Basotho nation.

British Protectorate (1868–1910)

In 1868, the British officially declared Basutoland (modern Lesotho) a protectorate, annexing it to the British Empire.

The British helped stop Boer incursions but imposed direct rule, limiting Moshoeshoe’s authority.

Moshoeshoe I died in 1870, but his legacy as the founder of the Basotho nation endured.

Incorporation into the British Empire (1910–1966)

In 1910, when South Africa was formed as a British dominion, Lesotho (then Basutoland) remained a separate British territory, refusing to join South Africa.

The British continued ruling Lesotho indirectly through local chiefs.

During the early 20th century, Basotho men were heavily recruited as migrant laborers in South Africa’s mines, a pattern that continues today.

By the mid-20th century, the rise of African nationalism led to increased demands for self-rule.

Independence and Post-Colonial Era (1966–Present)

Independence from Britain (1966)

Lesotho gained full independence on October 4, 1966, with King Moshoeshoe II as the monarch and Leabua Jonathan as the first Prime Minister.

Political Instability and Military Rule (1970–1993)

In 1970, Jonathan’s ruling Basotho National Party (BNP) lost elections but refused to cede power, leading to political turmoil.

A military coup in 1986 deposed Jonathan, bringing the army and King Moshoeshoe II into power.

South Africa played a role in Lesotho’s politics, sometimes destabilizing the government due to Lesotho’s opposition to apartheid.

In 1990, King Moshoeshoe II was exiled, and his son, King Letsie III, took the throne.

Return to Democracy (1993–1998)

In 1993, democracy was restored, with elections held.

Political instability persisted, culminating in a military mutiny in 1998, which led to intervention by South African and Botswana troops under SADC (Southern African Development Community).

Modern Political Developments (2000–Present)

2002–2012: Lesotho enjoyed relative stability with democratic elections.

2014 Coup Attempt: Political tensions resurfaced when Prime Minister Tom Thabane fled to South Africa after an alleged military coup attempt.

2017–2022: Lesotho saw multiple changes in government, with Prime Ministers Thomas Thabane, Moeketsi Majoro, and Sam Matekane assuming leadership.

Modern Lesotho: Challenges and Achievements

Challenges

• Economic Dependence on South Africa:
• Over 80% of Lesotho’s imports come from South Africa.
• Many Basotho work in South African mines, making the economy vulnerable.

Political Instability:

• Frequent government changes and coalition struggles weaken governance.

Poverty and Unemployment:

• Over 50% of Basotho live below the poverty line.
• The economy relies heavily on textiles, agriculture, and remittances.

HIV/AIDS Epidemic:

• One of the highest HIV/AIDS rates in the world (over 20%), impacting health and productivity.

Achievements

• Water Export (Lesotho Highlands Water Project):
• Lesotho supplies water to South Africa through a massive dam project, bringing in revenue.
• Political Progress:
• Despite instability, Lesotho maintains democratic elections and a functioning monarchy.
• Education:
• Lesotho has one of the highest literacy rates in Africa (over 80%), with free primary education.

Conclusion

Lesotho’s history is one of resilience and survival. From the formation of the Basotho Kingdom under Moshoeshoe I, through British colonization and independence, to modern political challenges, Lesotho has remained a distinct and proud nation. Despite economic struggles and political instability, the country continues to uphold its unique identity and democratic governance.

Lesotho’s future depends on political stability, economic diversification, and continued regional cooperation, particularly with South Africa.