Lesotho is rather different from most other African countries. For starters it is a kingdom which preserves a traditional hierarchy and customs and its population consists of one fairly homogenous ethnic group although admittedly there are differences and occasional rifts within it. Then it is a landlocked country completely surrounded by South Africa on which is depends heavily. Economically it has not been doing particularly well this partly because the country is so poorly endowed by nature and its people often eke out a living abroad. Politically there have been ups and downs the downs fortunately lying in the past with Lesotho doing somewhat better since the latest elections. Socially and culturally as hinted it is quite unique and this can be gathered from reading the book. This second edition of Historical Dictionary of Lesotho covers the full scope of Lesothos ancient colonial and independence eras. It gives greater emphasis to the more recent period and brings the book fully uptodate. This is done through a chronology an introductory essay appendixes and an extensive bibliography. The dictionary section has over 400 crossreferenced entries on civil society key events leaders governmental international religious and other private organizations policies political movements and parties economic elements and many other areas that have shaped the countrys trajectory. This book is an excellent access point for students researchers and anyone wanting to know more about Lesotho. show more