Eswatini

20000 BCE

Early Human Habitation by San People

Archaeological evidence indicates that the earliest inhabitants of the region were the San hunter-gatherers. Rock paintings throughout the country provide a historical record of their presence and lifestyle.

1745

Establishment of the Dlamini Dynasty

Ngwane III is recognized as the first monarch of the Dlamini dynasty, which unified various clans in the region. This period marked the consolidation of the kingdom that would eventually become Eswatini.

1840

Reign of Mswati II

Mswati II significantly expanded the kingdom's territory and consolidated its defensive capabilities against neighboring groups. His reign solidified the national identity and defined the borders of the Swazi state.

1894

South African Republic Administration

Following a series of conventions, the South African Republic took over the administration of Swaziland. This period brought the kingdom under significant Boer influence prior to the Anglo-Boer War.

1903

British Protectorate Status

After the defeat of the Boers in the Anglo-Boer War, Britain assumed control over Swaziland. It was administered as a protectorate governed by a resident commissioner.

1967

Granting of Self-Government

Britain granted Swaziland internal self-government, marking the beginning of the transition toward full sovereignty. A new constitution was established to prepare for the end of colonial rule.

1968

Independence from Britain

Swaziland gained formal independence from the United Kingdom on September 6, 1968. Sobhuza II was recognized as the King and head of state of the newly sovereign nation.

1973

King Sobhuza II Repeals Constitution

King Sobhuza II repealed the 1968 constitution and assumed supreme power over the nation. This action established a system of governance centered on the monarchy and traditional structures.

1986

Coronation of King Mswati III

Following the death of his father, Mswati III was crowned King of Eswatini. He has continued to exercise significant executive and legislative authority in the kingdom.

2018

Official Renaming to Kingdom of Eswatini

King Mswati III officially changed the country's name from Swaziland to the Kingdom of Eswatini. The change was intended to mark the 50th anniversary of independence and restore the pre-colonial name.

2021

Civil Unrest and Pro-Democracy Protests

Mass protests broke out across the country demanding democratic reforms and an end to the absolute monarchy. The government responded with a security crackdown, leading to international calls for political dialogue.

2023

National Parliamentary Elections

The country held parliamentary elections under the Tinkhundla system. These elections were the focus of significant domestic and international discourse regarding the political future of the kingdom.