30 September 1966 – Botswana Gains Independence From Britain

Originally home to the indigenous San peoples, they were displaced by migrating Tswana in the 17th century. In 1885, under the urging of Cecil Rhodes, the region became the Bechuanaland Protectorate, held by the British against incursions by Boers and Germans. Independence was achieved in 1966.

Find out more about the history of Botswana:
• A Brief History of Botswana
• Botswana History Resources

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