Introduction
Shaka the Zulu is a famous and quite controversial character in African history who ruled the Zulu tribes in the early 19th century. Under his power, the state of Zululand became a formidable power on the African continent, and even now, he is a national hero among the Zulu and many Black people in general. His reforms, mainly in the military field, modernized Zulu society and created a strong and victorious army.
Early Life, Family Background, and Career of the Revolutionary
While Shaka is one of the most famous African leaders, his life story was hard. He was an unwanted child who was forced to flee from his family and wandered in various places. He trained a lot, eventually becoming a strong and skillful warrior respected by the Zulu people. He claimed the leader’s throne by fighting with his brother (Golan, 1990, p. 97). His rulership was based mostly on military power, which he fostered and constantly improved.
Implemented Reforms and Their Impact on the Community
His reforms included appointing people to ruling positions based only on their skills, merits, and personal qualities, not their origin. In addition, he discouraged pregnancy in Zululand by forbidding men from military service to have children (Golan, 1990, pp. 98–99). It can be connected with his own story, where he was an undesired child; even his name demonstrates this.
There are other explanations, too: population control and making them concentrate on the military rather than the family (Golan, 1990, p. 100). He allowed Europeans to enter Zululand and even used some of their inventions, but he did not permit them to influence his rulership. After his death, caused by his half-brother Dingane and other people, the state started to weaken gradually.
Conclusion
Therefore, Shaka’s life and death resemble a hero’s path, making him a famous character for many Africans. He was rejected by his family and fought for the throne to eventually become a king, earning respect and dominating enemies with his power. When becoming a leader, Shaka began his reforms to unite various tribes and establish a strong state where people could be promoted based on their merits. While his rule was strict, reforms were successful and strengthened the nation; however, his early death, caused by his envious brother, ended them and eventually led to the weakening of Zululand.
Reference
Golan, D. (1990). The Life Story of King Shaka and Gender Tensions in the Zulu State. History in Africa, 17, 95–111. Web.