This article explores the history of Zimbabwe, touching on its geography, early inhabitants, and the impact of colonial rule. It also examines the role of swamps and other natural features in shaping the region's conflicts and military strategies.
Topography of Zimbabwe
Early History and Exploration
The Portuguese presence in East Africa dates back to the 15th century, with enterprises extending along the coast. However, their influence was met with Arab opposition. Ancient knowledge of East Africa existed through Greek and Roman sources. The area was known for its gold-mining population and Sabæan influence.
In 1862, the fields south of Fredericksburg were open and slightly rolling. A handful of men owned most of the land along the Richmond Highway (present-day Routes 2 and 17). Alfred Bernard owned the 911-acre plantation known as the Bend, while his brother Arthur owned some 1,800 adjacent acres at Mannsfield Plantation. Farther to the south stood Smithfield (today the Fredericksburg Country Club), then owned by Thomas Pratt and consisting of 1,750 acres.
Historical Clip: Support Commando RLI Fireforce Operation
Rhodesian Air Force and the Alouette III Helicopter
Flying the helicopter came later in the life of the always small, if potent, Rhodesian Air Force. When the helicopter was adopted, its agility - its ability to hover, to land and take-off in almost impossible terrain - was exploited to the full by the Rhodesians in their counter-insurgency war. Indeed the Rhodesians were to produce a unique and deadly variant of the tactic of 'vertical envelopment' of a target by helicopter-borne infantry, which they called 'Fire Force'.
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There was nothing new in the military use of helicopters. As soon as helicopters were available, the air forces and armies of the world gave them a multitude of tasks. The first workable machines appeared in the Second World War - the American Sikorsky R-6A and the German Flettner F1 282 Kolibri. Helicopters found general use thereafter. They were used for casualty evacuation in Korea and for moving forces to combat insurgents in Malaya, French Indo-China and in Kenya. In Algeria, the French developed the use of armed helicopters, the first 'gunships' (armed Alouette IIs) working with parachute troops and helicopter-borne infantry (carried in American Vertol H-21 twin rotor helicopters) to isolate and eliminate insurgent units.
There was a clear need for helicopters in Rhodesia but almost all of the terrain was over 2,000 feet above sea level and the climate was hot. As height and heat drastically reduced the efficiency of helicopter engines, a special helicopter was required. Such a helicopter was to be developed by the French who took the lead early on in the race to design light turboshaft engines.
The Alouette III SA316B could accommodate the pilot and six fully equipped troops. The Rhodesian practice was to carry a technician and four troops and to mount a FN 7.62mm MAG machine-gun [after 1976 twin Mk 2 .303-inch Browning Mk2 machine-guns - the RAF's turret and wing guns of the Second World War] at the port rear door. The passenger seats were easily removed, allowing the carriage of a variety of different loads. Experience in combat led the Rhodesians to remove the doors and to reverse the front passenger seats to widen the available floor space and gain flexibility. Casualties could be put on the floor. It was easier to leave the helicopter quickly and more could be carried. There was provision for an external sling for cargoes weighing up to 1,650 lbs (750 kgs). A hoist could be fitted with a 380 lbs (175 kgs) capacity to allow casualties and other loads to be winched up. The Alouette III could carry two stretcher cases and two seated wounded.
The Alouette III is a magnificent military machine, capable of being operated well beyond what its designers expected. It uses jet fuel (paraffin) but can operate on diesel - and petrol in a dire emergency [and only for a short flight]. It is capable of absorbing astonishing quantities of small arms fire and even hits from anti-tank rockets.
Both versions of the Alouette III were bought by Rhodesia while finding favour in 68 other countries. How many of each type Rhodesia possessed has not been revealed. Given international sanctions as a consequence of the unilateral declaration of independence by Ian Smith on 11 November 1965, clarity of records cannot be expected.
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By deft evasion of the international sanctions and the consequent arms embargo, eleven Italian Agusta-Bell 205A (the Rhodesians called them, 'Cheetahs') were acquired in August 1978. The AB205A was the celebrated American 'Huey' of Vietnam fame built under licence in Italy with a range of 400 kilometres and a maximum speed of 126 miles per hour. It was designed to carry 11 passengers but because these particular AB205As were elderly, and after armour and twin .303-inch machine-guns had been fitted, they could transport eight troops. Thus, they had a greater range and double ...
An Example of Alouette III in Action
Arsenal Co. Flown by Flight Lieutenant Victor Bernard Cook, the G-Car was carrying a Rhodesian Army medic on a mercy mission to treat an African civilian, who had been wounded in a contact that morning. The bullets, flashing up from a clearing in the trees, were fired by 27 members of the Zimbabwe African National Liberation Army (ZANLA) (supporting Robert Mugabe) whose base camp Cook was about to overfly. They severed the Alouette's tail rotor shaft and wounded Cook in the right foot and arms. His technician, Finch Bellringer, was semi-conscious after being hit by two rounds, which penetrated his body armour. The medic was mercifully unhurt but shocked.
Cook was awarded the Silver Cross but said he did not believe that he deserved it. 'Not when you see what the browns do. Those RLI guys, they are all Silver Cross material.' For his gallantry, Victor Cook was awarded the Silver Cross of Rhodesia.
Aérospatiale Alouette III cockpit
British Chartered Company and Mashonaland
The British Chartered Company of South Africa played a significant role in the region. An expedition was dispatched for Mashonaland, with roads leading to it. Difficulties such as cattle disease were encountered en route. The government established itself, employing interpreters and pioneers. Intercourse with the natives was initiated, though tribal feuds were present.
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Mashonaland is described as a country with granite hills. The natives used head-rests and practiced skin-polishing. Witchcraft was also a part of their culture. The area saw Zulu raids, and the natives engaged in agriculture and iron-smelting. Female decoration was common. The scenery was quaint, but diseases affected quadrupeds, and horses suffered from being ‘salted.’ Gold was discovered in the area. The pioneers engaged in bridge-building and tree-barking. Caterpillars were consumed as food, and sleeping in the forest was a part of life.
Zimbabwe Ruins
The expedition arrived at Zimbabwe, where they established a camp. The ruins of Zimbabwe were of particular interest. Daily work was carried out, and visitors came to the camp. Umgabe, a district chief, visited the camp. The natives were employed, and difficulties arose with the workmen. Provisions were secured, and marketing was conducted. The natives demonstrated their ingenuity, creating ornaments and snuff-boxes. The chief’s brother visited the camp, but trouble arose with the natives. The kraal of Ikomo was nearby, and an Amazonian dance was performed. Graves were found among the ruins. Musical instruments were played, and excursions were made from the camp. Beer-making was practiced, and locusts were eaten. The natives exhibited a migratory spirit, and the scenery around was remarkable.
Prominent features of the Great Zimbabwe ruins include excavation work. The ruined towers had religious significance, possibly related to sacrifice. A Kaffir cemetery was present. The hill fortress was described, noting the labyrinthine nature of the buildings. Gold-smelting furnaces and caves were found. The ruins of Little Zimbabwe were also explored.
Challenges and Encounters
One of the direful experiences was navigating a swamp. The area was characterized by direful experience of a swamp, the archaeology of ruined cities, and ancient gold-mines. The Great Zimbabwe ruins were situated in this landscape. There was Arabian influence in the region.
Shoshong
A journey to Shoshong was undertaken, and the expedition arrived at the hills of Shoshong, where missionaries and traders were present. There was an exodus of natives due to a water famine. Tribal raids occurred on Shoshong. Ruins were also found there.
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Geography and Environment
The country features a diversity of landscapes, including forests. Political and religious dynamics were also significant. The expedition faced privations, and the highest inhabited spot was noted. The magnificence of the country was evident, though the tsetse fly posed a challenge.
Conclusion
The history of Zimbabwe is a complex tapestry woven from early exploration, colonial encounters, and indigenous resilience. The strategic use of landscapes, including swamps, and the adaptation of military tactics reflect the ongoing struggle for survival and sovereignty in the region.
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