Timeline of Lesotho

Chronology

10 events spanning the history of Lesotho. BCE/CE dating.

1. 1860

   Lesotho becomes a British protectorate.

   Lesotho becomes a British protectorate.

2. 1884

   Becomes a British colony.

   Becomes a British colony after revolt against Cape Colonial rule. Paramount chiefs retain large degree of autonomy.

3. 1939 – 1945

   World War II, with 20,000 Sotho serving in the British forces.

   World War II, with 20,000 Sotho serving in the British forces.

4. 1966

   Lesotho gained independence from Britain.

   Lesotho gained independence from Britain.

5. 1990

   King Moshoeshoe II goes into exile. His son is sworn in as Letsie III.

   King Moshoeshoe II goes into exile. His son is sworn in as Letsie III.

6. 1994

   Fighting among rival army factions.

   Fighting among rival army factions.

7. 1995

   Moshoeshoe II restored to throne, but dies in a car crash. Letsie III restored as king.

   Moshoeshoe II restored to throne, but dies in a car crash. Letsie III restored as king.

8. 2004

   Widespread drought was reported across southern Africa.

   Widespread drought was reported across southern Africa. Lesotho, Malawi, South Africa and Zimbabwe were all affected.

9. 2005

   First local elections since independence.

   First local elections since independence.

10. 2006

    Lesotho marks 40 years of independence from Britain with a new flag.

    Lesotho marks 40 years of independence from Britain with a new flag.