By Redaction ARPS Media with MENAFN
Dr. Motlatsi Thabane (original Author) emphasizes the need for discussions about the borders between Lesotho and South Africa, focusing on the historical loss of Basotho land in the 1800s due to wars and treaties under British pressure.
Two groups are notably voicing concerns: political leaders using nationalism for electoral support and poorer Basotho seeking land reclamation to improve their living conditions.
As argued, the historical events include:
In the 1830s, Voortrekkers, supported by the British, began taking Basotho land.
In 1843, the Napier Treaty led to significant Basotho land loss in exchange for British protection.
In 1845, the Maitland Treaty promised to remove the Boers but was never accepted.
In 1848, the Annexation of land by British High Commissioner Harry Smith reduced the Basotho territory.
In 1849, the Warden Line was drawn, favoring Free Staters and disregarding Basotho claims.
In 1854, Control of the Orange River Sovereignty was returned to Free Staters, canceling the Basotho treaties.
In 1858, Further land loss occurred after a conflict when BHC George Grey honored Free State claims.
In 1864, another intervention favored the Free Staters, leading to further land loss for the Basotho.
In 1869, some lowlands were returned after the Free State-Basotho war, but much land was still lost.
Thabane concludes that understanding this history is crucial for any judgment on current border issues, questioning whether the focus should be on power dynamics, justice, or nationalism.
Read original article at: Facts On How Basotho Lost Land In The 19Th Century
