On April 18, in the African country of Zimbabwe, located between the Zambezi and Limpopo rivers in the southern part of the continent, Independence Day ( Independence Day in Zimbabwe ) is celebrated. This day in the country is also called Republic Day ( Republic Day ) in honor of the victory over the government « the white » minority and recognition of the Republic of Zimbabwe.
In the 12th — 17th centuries, the state of Monomotapa existed in Zimbabwe and Mozambique. The heyday of the Monomotapa dates back to the 14th — 15th centuries, when its political influence extended far beyond the borders of the Inter-River.
In 1693, as a result of internecine wars, Monomotapa was destroyed by the tribes of the rosary. In 1834, Matabele, under the leadership of his leader, Mzilikazi invaded the current Zimbabwe and subjugated the state of rozvi.
Half a hundred years later, this territory was captured by English colonialists and was called South Rhodesia ( Southern Rhodesia ). In 1923, the United Kingdom declared Southern Rhodesia an autonomous colony. And on November 11, 1965, « the white » government led by Ian Smith ( Ian Smith ) declared independence by unilateral act while maintaining a racist regime in the country. However, not a single state, including Great Britain, recognized it.
The armed struggle of Africans against the racist regime led to the declaration and recognition on April 18, 1980 of the independence of the African state — of the Republic of Zimbabwe. The motto of the Republic was: Unity, Freedom, Work ( University, Freedom, Work ).
On Independence Day — the country's main weekend — parades with dances, songs and fireworks are held everywhere, rallying.