Umlando: Afrikan History Podcast

Nongqawuse was a 19th century Xhosa diviner, born in 1841 at a place known as Centane near the Gxarha River in the Eastern Cape province. Nongqawuse’s parents died while she was very young during the Eighth Xhosa War of Colonial Resistance. She was raised by her uncle Mhlakaza, who was the son of a councillor of the Xhosa King Sarili kaHintsa. Mhlakaza was a Xhosa spiritualist, who left Xhosaland after his mother's death and spent time in the Cape Colony, where he became familiar with Christianity. He returned to Xhosaland in 1853. Mhlakazi was to have a major influence in Nongqawuse's life, acting as an interpreter and organiser of her visions. In April 1856, Nongqawuse, at the age of 15, along with her friend Nombanda, who was approximately 8 to 10 years old, ventured to the seaside fields near the Gxarha River mouth to chase away birds from her uncle's crops. Upon her return, Nongqawuse confided in Mhlakaza, sharing that she had encountered the spirits of two of her ancestors. These ancestral spirits introduced themselves by name and began to impart their divine messages of warning to her.

Warrior Queen Mmanthatisi, akin to other notable African rulers like Sekhukhune, Faku, and Cetshwayo, forcefully claimed the Batlokwa throne, showing no mercy to her opposition. Her military career included the subjugation of nearly 30 tribes and victories over King Zwide of amaNdwandwe and King Moshoeshoe of Basotho. She was a tall, attractive woman with a light brown complexion and married Kgosi Mokotjo, who, despite a mysterious illness, peacefully passed away at 27 under her care. Following the King's death, Mmanthatisi boldly assumed the role of Queen Regent by covering herself in his royal mantle and calling a council meeting, thereby challenging established Batlokwa traditions and customs.

Langalibalele, the king of amaHlubi, resisted colonialism during a time when diamonds were discovered in Kimberley, attracting workers of all backgrounds. Some amaHlubi laborers were paid in guns instead of money, a legal practice in Griqualand West. In 1873, Langalibalele refused to enforce an order to register these guns, leading to his arrest by Sir Benjamin Pine, the lieutenant governor of the Natal Colony.

João Albasini and Coenraad De Buys were notable historical figures who defied the racial norms of their time by becoming the recognized leaders of African tribes. Albasini, an Italian trader, earned the respect and trust of the Tsonga people through trade and support. He even became their honorary King and played a significant role in their leadership. Coenraad De Buys, on the other hand, was a tall and confident individual who formed alliances with various African tribes, earning nicknames that reflected his characteristics. Their stories highlight the complex dynamics of cultural, racial, and political interactions between white men and African tribes during a period dominated by colonial powers. These two men's deep understanding of local customs and dedication to indigenous people led them to positions of leadership and influence. Despite the challenges they faced, their legacies endure among the communities they impacted.