Prior to Independence
Before independence, Botswana was known as the Bechuanaland Protectorate. The British Government extended the protectorate status on 31 March 1885, following requests made by Batswana Dikgosi (chiefs) Khama III of Bangwato, Sebele I of Bakwena, and Bathoen I of Bangwaketse. These three Dikgosi feared invasion of their territories by groups such as the Shona, the Ndebele, and the Boers.
Initially, most Batswana Dikgosi, apart from the three, were suspicious of and resisted British protection. However, they eventually agreed, with the understanding that British protection would not lead to British rule, but rather be limited to safeguarding against external threats.
During the era of the Bechuanaland Protectorate, there were various attempts to incorporate the territory into Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) and the Union of South Africa (now South Africa). These efforts were, however, defeated due to strong opposition from the Batswana Dikgosi, certain British missionaries, and later, Batswana nationalist leaders.
The Path to Independence
In 1963 and 1964, a series of constitutional discussions regarding self-government and the founding constitution took place. These talks were motivated in part by the desire to prevent the incorporation of Bechuanaland into the Union of South Africa. In June 1964, Britain accepted proposals for democratic self-government in Botswana.
In 1965, the seat of government was moved from Mafikeng, South Africa, to the newly established Gaborone. The first general elections were held in March 1965, resulting in a resounding victory for the Botswana Democratic Party, led by Sir Seretse Khama, which won 28 of the 31 contested seats. The remaining three seats were won by the Botswana Peoples Party, led by Mr. Phillip Matante.
On 30 September 1966, Botswana became an independent country, the Republic of Botswana, with Sir Seretse Khama as its first President. He led the country until his death in 1980, after which he was succeeded by Vice President Sir Ketumile Masire, who served until his retirement in 1998. Vice President Mr. Festus Mogae then assumed the presidency, retiring in 2008. On 1 April 2008, Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama took over the presidency. Upon the completion of his term on 31 March 2018, Dr. Mokgweetsi E. K. Masisi assumed the presidency on 1 April 2018.