Independence of Lesotho

Lesotho gained independence from Britain in 1966, but its history during this period is closely connected with the struggle against apartheid in neighboring South Africa. The country has played an important role as a haven for activists. For example, Desmond Tutu moved to this country in 1970 due to a conflict with the South African authorities. Here he lectured at the local Roman Catholic university, continuing his ecclesiastical and social activities in the safety of the apartheid regime. This highlights Lesotho's role as a safe zone for South African intellectuals and oppositionists.

The country, completely surrounded by South African territory, depended on it economically, but retained political sovereignty. Supporting figures like Tutu, in exile or in safe territories, kept the voice of the opposition alive. In 1972, Tutu was appointed assistant director of the theological foundation of the World Council of Anglican Churches and went to London, but his time in Lesotho was an important stage in the formation of his views on nonviolent resistance.