BASUTOLAND

Brit. crown colony, 8. Africa (29° 8., 28° E.); bounded by Orange Free State on N. and W., Cape Proy. on 8., Natal on E. and N.E.; surface is part of great plateau, c. 5,000 ft. above sea-level, and has mountains cro ing it, including Maluti ranges and Drakensberg; principal rivers, Orange, Caledon; healthy climate. Administration is carried out by resident commi ioner subject to authority of high commni ioner for S. Africa. Brit. protectorate (1868); became part of Cape Colony (1871); war which occurred (1880-1) in consequence of attempt to disarm natives, resulted in establishment of autonomy; again taken directly under authority of imperial government (1884), since when trade and agriculture have greatly developed; loyal during Boer War. (1899-1902) and the World War. Inhabitants are of Bantu stock, majority Basutos proper, with admixture of other tribes. Basutoland is a native reserve. Cap. is Maseru. Productions include great quantities of cereals, wool, and mohair; cattle, ponies, and sheep raised for export; coal is found. Area, 1,400 whites). See Map Arnica.