Zimbabwe Gweru History: A Look at the City's Rich Past
Located in the Midlands Province of Zimbabwe, Gweru is the third-largest city in the country. It is a vibrant hub of activity, boasting a rich history and culture that dates back centuries. The city has been an important center of trade and commerce for centuries, and it has been a key site in the country's struggle for independence. Here, we take a look at the history of Gweru and how it has evolved over time.
The city of Gweru was founded in the late 16th century by the Ndebele people, who had migrated from the north. The Ndebele were a powerful and influential tribe that had a strong presence in the region. They established the city as a trading hub, and it quickly became an important center of commerce. The Ndebele were able to maintain their control over the city until the British arrived in the late 19th century.
The British colonization of Zimbabwe had a major impact on Gweru. The city was renamed Fort Victoria, and it became an important administrative center. The British also established a railway line that connected the city to other major cities in the region, such as Bulawayo and Harare. This made Gweru an important transportation hub in the region.
During the Second World War, Gweru was used as a base for the British forces. After the war, the city was returned to the Ndebele people and it was renamed Gweru. In the years that followed, Gweru became an important center of commerce and industry. It was also a key site in the struggle for Zimbabwean independence. In 1980, Gweru became the capital of the newly independent nation of Zimbabwe.
Since then, Gweru has continued to be a major city in the country. It is home to a number of industries, including mining, manufacturing, and tourism. The city is also home to a number of universities, including the University of Zimbabwe and the Midlands State University. Gweru is a vibrant and dynamic city, and it continues to be an important center of commerce and culture in the country.