The Widows' War, also known as the Herero and Namaqua genocide, was a conflict in German South-West Africa (modern-day Namibia) between 1904 and 1908. It pitted the German colonial forces against the indigenous Herero and Nama people.
The war stemmed from several factors, including German colonial land seizures, discrimination, and economic exploitation of the native populations. The Herero, led by Chief Samuel Maharero, initiated the uprising in January 1904. They attacked German farms and settlements, resulting in the deaths of some German settlers. The Nama, under the leadership of Hendrik Witbooi and Jakob Morenga, joined the rebellion later in the year.
The German response was brutal. General Lothar von Trotha was appointed commander and issued an extermination order against the Herero in October 1904. Herero people were driven into the Omaheke Desert, where many died of starvation and thirst. Those who surrendered were placed in concentration camps, where they were subjected to forced labor and disease.
The Nama also faced fierce resistance. Although Witbooi died in 1905, the Nama continued to fight under other leaders. However, they were eventually defeated, and many were also placed in concentration camps.
The Widows' War resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of Herero and Nama people. It is now recognized as one of the first genocides of the 20th century. The German government officially apologized for the genocide in 2004.
Key aspects of the conflict include:
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