Transkei

The territory spans 45,000 square kilometers along the Indian Ocean coast, marked by mountainous terrain and bordered by the Drakensberg mountain range.

The South African government established Transkei as the first nominally independent homeland on October 26, 1976, specifically for the Xhosa-speaking population.

The territory operated under a constitution that designated Xhosa as the official language, while English and Sesotho remained in use for legislative purposes.

The land conditions proved insufficient for agriculture, causing many residents to seek employment in South African mines and urban centers outside the territory.

General Bantu Holomisa executed a military takeover in 1987, shifting the territory's allegiance toward the African National Congress until its 1994 reintegration.

Inception: October 26, 1976

Capital city: Mthatha

GPS coordinates: -31.00000,29.00000

Latest update: May 30, 2025 18:54