WHY DID MZILIKAZI MAKE FRIENDS WITH TRADERS

Background

Mzilikazi was a powerful Zulu chief who ruled over the Ndebele people of southern Africa in the 19th century. He was a fierce warrior and a skilled politician, and he played a major role in the history of the region.

Mzilikazi’s Early Life

Mzilikazi was born in Zululand in 1798. He was the son of Matshobana KaMangete, a Zulu chief, and Ntombazi KaMhlanga, a daughter of the Swazi king. Mzilikazi grew up in a time of great turmoil, as the Zulu kingdom was expanding rapidly under the leadership of Shaka Zulu.

Mzilikazi’s Rivalry with Shaka Zulu

In 1817, Mzilikazi quarrelled with Shaka Zulu, and he was forced to flee Zululand with his followers. He eventually settled in what is now Zimbabwe, where he established his own kingdom.
Mzilikazi’s kingdom was often at war with its neighbors, and he was known for his brutality. However, he was also a shrewd politician, and he realized that he needed to trade with the Europeans in order to obtain the goods that he needed for his people.

Mzilikazi’s Relationship with Traders

Mzilikazi welcomed traders from all over the world to his kingdom. He gave them permission to trade with his people, and he even provided them with protection from attack. In return, the traders brought Mzilikazi the goods that he needed, such as guns, ammunition, and cloth.

Benefits of Mzilikazi’s Policy

Mzilikazi’s policy of befriending traders had a number of benefits for his kingdom. First, it allowed him to obtain the goods that he needed to maintain his military and political power. Second, it helped to promote economic development in his kingdom. Third, it gave Mzilikazi a window into the wider world, and it allowed him to learn about new ideas and technologies.

Conclusion

Mzilikazi’s policy of befriending traders was a wise one, and it helped to make him one of the most powerful rulers in southern Africa. He was a complex and controversial figure, but there is no doubt that he was a great leader.

FAQS

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