Lesotho, also known as the Kingdom of Lesotho, is a small landlocked country located in the Southern African region. It is bordered by South Africa to the north, east, and south and by the Kingdom of Eswatini to the west. Lesotho has a population of approximately 2.1 million people and is the only country in the world that is completely surrounded by another country. Lesotho has a rich and vibrant history that dates back centuries, and its culture and traditions are an integral part of the country’s identity.
The earliest known inhabitants of Lesotho were the San people, who were hunter-gatherers. The San people were eventually displaced by the Bantu, who were agriculturalists. The Bantu people moved into the region and established the kingdom of Basutoland, which was ruled by a monarchy. The Basotho people, who are the descendants of the Bantu, are the majority ethnic group in Lesotho today.
The Kingdom of Basutoland was colonized by the British in 1868, and it remained under British rule until 1966. During this time, the British implemented policies that had a significant impact on the country’s economy and society. The country gained its independence in 1966 and was renamed the Kingdom of Lesotho.
Lesotho has experienced a number of political and economic changes since its independence. In the 1970s, the country experienced a period of economic growth and development, and in the 1980s, it was one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa. However, in the 1990s, the country experienced a period of political turmoil, and in 1998, a military coup overthrew the government. The country has since stabilized, and in 2002, it held its first democratic elections.
Lesotho is a peaceful and democratic country today, and it has made great strides in improving its economy. It is a member of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU), and it is a signatory to various international treaties and conventions. The country is also known for its beautiful landscapes, and it is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered African wild dog.
Lesotho’s history is complex and fascinating, and it is a country with a rich culture and a bright future. It is a unique and beautiful country that is worth exploring.