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Botswana: A History of Independence

Discover the Story of Botswana's Formation

From Bechuanaland Protectorate to Modern Nation: Explore the pivotal moments that shaped Botswana's identity.

Botswana: A History of Independence

Botswana (Bechuanaland)

The British sought to maintain their influence over the Tswana tribes due to their strategic location connecting southern and central Africa. Facing potential encroachment from German South West Africa and Afrikaners, the Tswana chiefs saw British protection as a preferable alternative to German settler colonialism. In 1885, Bechuanaland became a British protectorate under the Bechuanaland Protectorate Order in Council, formally established in 1904 with a guarantee against incorporation into the Union of South Africa.

Strategic Location

Botswana's position connected Southern and Central Africa, making it a key area of interest for European powers.

Tswana Chiefs' Role

The Tswana chiefs played a crucial role in negotiating and shaping the protectorate's establishment.

Avoidance of Settler Colonialism

The British protectorate was seen as a way to prevent the kind of German settler colonialism feared by the Tswana.

1904: Formalization of the Protectorate

An Order in Council formally defines the Bechuanaland Protectorate and guarantees its non-incorporation into the Union of South Africa.

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