Famous South African Emperors & Kings

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 1 
Shaka
(Zulu Emperor)
Shaka
16
Birthdate: 1787 AD
Birthplace: KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Died: September 22, 1828
King Shaka Zulu was a highly influential monarch of the Zulu Kingdom from 1816 to 1828. He implemented significant military reforms that transformed the Zulu military into a powerful force. Shaka forged alliances with neighboring tribes, using diplomatic strategies and occasional strategic assassinations to counter threats. He refined the ibutho military system and led his forces in battles, while also engaging in social and propagandistic political methods. His reign coincided with the devastating Mfecane/Difaqane period in southern Africa, during which the region experienced widespread warfare and chaos.
 2 
Goodwill Zwelithini
(King of the Zulus)
Goodwill Zwelithini
4
Birthdate: July 27, 1948
Sun Sign: Leo
Birthplace: Nongoma, South Africa
Died: March 12, 2021
Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu served as the King of the Zulu nation from 1968 until his passing in 2021. He ascended to the throne at a young age and faced challenges, including a period of regency and exile due to threats on his life. Zwelithini was officially installed as the eighth monarch of the Zulus in 1971. Throughout his reign, he played a significant role in upholding Zulu traditions and cultural practices, maintaining a strong connection with his people until his death in 2021.
 3 
Cetshwayo
(King)
Cetshwayo
2
Birthdate: 1826 AD
Birthplace: Eshowe, Zulu Kingdom
Died: February 8, 1884
Cetshwayo kaMpande was the king of the Zulu Kingdom from 1873 to 1884. He also served as its Commander in Chief during the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879. Despite consistently opposing the war, he was defeated and exiled after the Zulu defeat. Cetshwayo made efforts to seek peace with the British, albeit unsuccessfully. Following his exile, he was later permitted to return to Zululand before his passing in 1884.
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 4 
Dingiswayo
(Mthethwa leader)
Dingiswayo
2
Birthdate: 1780 AD
Birthplace: KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Died: 1817 AD
Dingiswayo, a Mthethwa King, played a crucial role in mentoring the young Zulu general, Shaka kaSenzangakhona, who later became the greatest of the Zulu Kings. Dingiswayo focused on diplomacy and assimilation of nearby chiefdoms to strengthen his power base, leading the Mthethwa to prominence during his reign. The Mthethwas, under Dingiswayo's leadership, traced their descent from the Nguni peoples of northern Natal and the Lubombo Mountains, solidifying their modern identity over centuries.
 5 
Dingane kaSenzangakhona
(King)
Dingane kaSenzangakhona
1
Birthdate: 1795 AD
Birthplace: KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Died: 1840 AD
Dingane kaSenzangakhona Zulu was a Zulu prince who ascended to the throne as king of the Zulu Kingdom in 1828. Following the assassination of his half-brother Shaka Zulu, Dingane established his royal capital at uMgungundlovu and strategically positioned military encampments in the eMakhosini Valley near the White Umfolozi River. Known for his military prowess and leadership, Dingane's reign was marked by his efforts to expand and fortify his kingdom, solidifying his authority over the Zulu people.
 6 
Mswati II
(King)
Mswati II
2
Birthdate: 1825 AD
Birthplace: Eswatini
Died: 1868 AD
King Mswati II was the ruler of Eswatini from 1840 to 1868, known for his military prowess and expansion of territorial boundaries. Initially facing internal conflicts with his brothers, he later strengthened his military power and led successful campaigns against other Bantu tribes. His armies focused on plundering cattle and captives rather than political incorporation. Mswati extended Swazi territory significantly, establishing outposts and royal villages. His reign marked the first contact between Swazis and European settlers, ultimately resulting in the unification of various peoples into one nation.
 7 
Mzilikazi
(King of the Ndebele)
Mzilikazi
3
Birthdate: 1790 AD
Birthplace: near Mkuze, South Africa
Died: September 9, 1868
Mzilikazi was a Southern African king who founded the Ndebele Kingdom, now known as Matebeleland in Zimbabwe. He was a renowned military leader, often compared to the likes of Shaka, the Zulu king. His leadership and tactical skills gained him recognition as one of the greatest military leaders in Southern Africa. Mzilikazi's influence extended beyond his kingdom, earning praise from notable figures such as David Livingstone. His legacy as a skilled warrior and king remains prominent in the history of the region.
 8 
Mampuru II
(KIng)
Mampuru II
0
Birthplace: Africa
Died: November 22, 1883
Mampuru II was a king of the Pedi people in southern Africa, who claimed the throne after a succession dispute with his cousin Sekhukhune. He ruled briefly after being installed by a British-Swazi invasion but was later arrested and hanged by the Boer South African Republic for ordering the assassination of Sekhukhune. Despite his controversial actions, Mampuru II is remembered as an early liberation movement icon in South Africa, with a prison being renamed in his honor.