In what ways did Lewanika collaborate with the British?

Lewanika collaborated with the British by signing treaties, offering mining concessions, and seeking British protection against rival tribes.

King Lewanika of the Lozi people in what is now Zambia, was a significant figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He is best known for his collaboration with the British, which he pursued as a strategy to protect his kingdom from rival tribes and the encroachment of other European powers. This collaboration took several forms, including the signing of treaties, the granting of mining concessions, and the seeking of British protection.

In 1890, Lewanika signed a treaty with the British South Africa Company (BSAC), led by Cecil Rhodes. This treaty, known as the Lochner Concession, granted the BSAC exclusive mineral rights in the Lozi kingdom, in exchange for an annual payment to Lewanika and the promise of British protection. The treaty was controversial, as it was signed under dubious circumstances and its terms were heavily skewed in favour of the BSAC. However, it marked a significant step in Lewanika's collaboration with the British.

Lewanika also granted mining concessions to the British. These concessions allowed British companies to explore and exploit the mineral wealth of the Lozi kingdom, particularly its copper deposits. In return, Lewanika received payments and other benefits, such as the provision of British advisers and administrators. These concessions further entrenched British influence in the Lozi kingdom and were another key aspect of Lewanika's collaboration with the British.

Finally, Lewanika sought British protection against rival tribes and other European powers. He saw the British as a powerful ally who could help him maintain his rule and protect his kingdom from external threats. This led him to actively court British favour and support, including by offering his kingdom as a British protectorate. This strategy was successful in securing British protection, but it also led to increased British control over the Lozi kingdom.

In conclusion, Lewanika's collaboration with the British was a complex and multifaceted process. It involved the signing of treaties, the granting of mining concessions, and the seeking of British protection. While this collaboration brought some benefits to Lewanika and his kingdom, it also led to increased British influence and control.