Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a small, landlocked country in Southern Africa with a rich and complex history. The ancestors of the Swazi people migrated south from present-day Mozambique before the 16th century, eventually settling in the region known today as Eswatini by the mid-18th century. Under the leadership of notable figures such as Ngwane III and King Mswati II, the Swazi people established a powerful kingdom. The nation navigated European colonial pressures, becoming a British protectorate in the early 20th century, before achieving independence in 1968. The modern period of Eswatini has been characterized by significant political changes and efforts to preserve its cultural heritage.
Chronological History of Eswatini
Early History and Migrations:
- Pre-16th Century: Ancestors of the Swazi people migrated south from present-day Mozambique.
- Around 1750: Swazi settled in northern Zululand, later moving northward to the area now known as Eswatini due to pressure from Zulu expansion.
Kingdom Formation:
- Mid-18th Century: Ngwane III established the kingdom, laying the foundation of modern Eswatini.
- 1840-1868: Reign of King Mswati II, from whom the Swazi name derives. Expanded territory and strengthened the kingdom’s military and administrative structures.
European Contact and Colonization:
- 1840s: First contact with European settlers, mainly Dutch Trekboers.
- 1881: British convention recognized Swazi independence. However, in 1894, a convention placed Swaziland under the South African Republic as a protectorate.
- 1903: The British assumed control over Swaziland following the Second Anglo-Boer War.
20th Century Developments:
- 1921: King Sobhuza II became the Ngwenyama (lion) or head of the Swazi nation. He ruled for 82 years, making him one of the longest-reigning monarchs.
- 1944: The British recognized the Swazi king’s authority, moving towards greater self-governance.
- 1964: Swaziland’s first legislative council election saw the Imbokodvo National Movement (INM) win all elective seats.
- 1968: Swaziland gained independence from Britain on September 6th, becoming the Kingdom of Swaziland.
Post-Independence Era:
- 1973: King Sobhuza II repealed the constitution and assumed absolute power, dissolving parliament and banning political activities.
- 1982: King Sobhuza II died; Queen Regent Dzeliwe and later Queen Regent Ntombi assumed duties until Prince Makhosetive was enthroned as King Mswati III in 1986.
Modern Period:
- 1986: Mswati III ascended to the throne and abolished the supreme traditional advisory body Liqoqo, consolidating his power.
- 2018: King Mswati III announced the country’s official name change from the Kingdom of Swaziland to the Kingdom of Eswatini to reflect Indigenous heritage better.
Eswatini’s journey from early migrations through kingdom formation, European colonization, and eventual independence highlights the resilience and adaptability of the Swazi people. The nation has successfully navigated internal and external challenges to maintain its sovereignty and cultural identity. With the recent rebranding to Eswatini in 2018, the country continues to honour its historical roots while forging a path toward a distinct and self-determined future.
