Changamire I: Warrior King who founded Rozvi Empire (1684-1866) in Zimbabwe 🇿🇼📍
The Rozvi Empire (1684-1866) was a Shona state established on the Zimbabwean Plateau by Changamire Dombo. The term "Rozvi" comes from the Shona word "kurozva," which means "to plunder." It refers to their history as a warrior nation.
Following the death of King Matope, Dombo or Changa relocated to the south and established the Rozwi Kingdom. In establishing the Rozwi Kingdom, Dombo defeated the Torwa rulers of Guruuswa or Butua. The rozwi military regiment, which was known for its discipline and effectiveness, was given the name of the kingdom. Changamire Dombo was Dombo's
moniker after he was given the title
changamire. Mambos would be his
successors' title. Changamire Dombo drove the Portuguese out of Mutapa and Manyika between 1684 and 1696, making the Rozwi Empire the most powerful empire on the Zimbabwe plateau, the Zambezi Valley. In 1696, Changamire Dombo died. The Zambezi Valley would be dominated by his dynasty.