Lesotho Independence Day is celebrated annually on October 4th to commemorate the day the nation gained its independence from the United Kingdom in 1966. This public holiday marks the end of colonial rule and the beginning of self-governance for the Kingdom of Lesotho.
Historical Context
· Basutoland,
as it was then known, was initially a British protectorate established in 1868
to protect the local tribes from attacks by Boer trekkers.
· On
October 4, 1966, Basutoland formally achieved independence from Great Britain.
· The country was renamed the Kingdom of Lesotho, with Moshoeshoe II as king and Leabua Jonathan as the first prime minister.
Significance
· The day
is a significant national holiday for the Basotho people, celebrating the
nation's sovereignty and self-governance.
· It honours
the legacy of King Moshoeshoe I, who founded the nation and is considered
the father of the Basotho people for his diplomacy and commitment to unity.
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