ZIMSEC O Level · History · Form 2
The Mfecane
A period of wars and migrations in southern Africa in the early 19th century.
- Causes: population growth and land shortage, drought, competition for trade at Delagoa Bay, and the rise of the Zulu state under Shaka.
- Results: new states formed (Ndebele, Sotho, Swazi, Gaza); some areas were depopulated; people migrated north, reaching present-day Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi and Tanzania.
The Ndebele state
- Founded by Mzilikazi, who broke away from Shaka, migrated through the Transvaal, and settled near present-day Bulawayo around 1840.
- Political organisation: the king was head of the army, judiciary and religion; the state was organised into regiments (amabutho) and settlements controlled by indunas.
- Social structure: the Zansi (original Nguni), Enhla (incorporated from Sotho-Tswana groups) and Hole (incorporated from local Shona groups).
- Economy: cattle (the main form of wealth), crop farming, raiding and tribute, and trade.
- Lobengula became king in 1870 after Mzilikazi's death in 1868.
Exam tip: Questions on the Ndebele state often ask how the king kept control – link the army, religion (inxwala ceremony) and the distribution of cattle.
Check yourself
- Name the leader of the Zulu state whose rise contributed to the Mfecane.
- Who founded the Ndebele state?
- Name the three social groups in the Ndebele state.
Show answers
- Shaka.
- Mzilikazi.
- Zansi, Enhla and Hole.
Questions about this topic (0)
No questions about this topic yet.
Sign in or create a free account to join in.