What factors led to the growth of the Swazi state during the nineteenth century

What factors led to the growth of the Swazi state during the nineteenth century

  • A firm foundation given by Sobhuza’s peaceful policy and wise leadership was a factor.
  • The adoption of the age- regiment system gave the Ngwane an advantage over their neighbours.




  • The geography of Swaziland characterized by mountains made it secure from the attacks from the Zulu.
  • The location of his capital on Lebombo Mountains protected the state from its enemies.
  • Sobhuza’s peaceful and lenient rule won him loyalty of the people and promoted unity
  • Good diplomatic ties with neighbours also avoided the out break of wars which led to the growth of the Swazi state. For example he married the daughter of Zwide to avoid a war with the latter.
  • The smooth succession to power from Sobhuza to his son Mswati with out a major dispute promoted unity that ensured growth.
  • Internal and external trade that increased on the wealth of the state also led to the growth and expansion of the state.
  • The clear division of labour between men and women led to economic development in the state.
  • Good leadership provided by Sobhuza/ Somhlolo in from 1815 -1839 and Mswati from 1840 – 1868.
  • The African traditional religion also promoted unity among the Swazi hence its growth.




  • The strong military established by Sobhuza was yet another factor for the expansion of the Swazi state. He equipped it with fire arms acquired from Europeans at the coast.
  • Mfecane was another factor. It forced many to join the Swazi state hence its growth and expansion.

RELATED POSTS

Published by

mwaikusa

IAM experienced geography teacher with more than three years of teaching and creating content related to geography and other subjects for both high school and college students. hope you will find the content of this website useful to your studies and daily life

One thought on “What factors led to the growth of the Swazi state during the nineteenth century”

Comments are closed.