Zimbabwe’s history is rich, filled with stories of colonial rule, the fight for independence, and the cultural identity that emerged after its freedom from Rhodesia. If you’re looking to dive into Zimbabwe’s history, these 10 books offer the best perspectives. Here’s a countdown from 10th to the 1st must-read book on Zimbabwe history.
10. We Dared to Win: The SAS in Rhodesia by Hannes Wessels
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5 stars, 584 ratings)
This riveting account tells the story of the Rhodesian SAS during the bush war. Hannes Wessels dives deep into the operations of one of Africa’s most secretive military units, highlighting their role in shaping the country’s military history.
Why You’ll Love It:
If you’re fascinated by military strategy and the history of elite forces, this book will grip you with its real-life accounts of daring missions and tactical brilliance.
Fun Fact:
The Rhodesian SAS, modeled after the British SAS, were known for their unconventional warfare and played a pivotal role in the bush war.
Category: Zimbabwe History
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9. Scribbling the Cat: Travels with an African Soldier by Alexandra Fuller
⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.2/5 stars, 472 ratings)
Alexandra Fuller takes readers on a heartfelt journey as she travels across Zimbabwe with an ex-soldier who fought in the Rhodesian Bush War. Through their conversations, Fuller explores the emotional scars of war and the lasting impact on Zimbabwe.
Why You’ll Love It:
Fuller’s poetic prose makes history come alive as she reveals the human side of the soldiers who lived through the conflict. It’s a blend of travelogue and historical reflection.
Fun Fact:
Fuller’s memoirs are highly personal; she grew up in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) during the final years of the bush war, giving her stories an authentic touch.
Category: Zimbabwe History
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8. Selous Scouts: Rhodesian Counter-Insurgency Specialists (Africa@War) by Peter Baxter
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5 stars, 52 ratings)
Peter Baxter delves into the covert operations of the Selous Scouts, Rhodesia’s elite counter-insurgency unit. This book provides an in-depth analysis of their tactics, successes, and controversies during the bush war.
Why You’ll Love It:
Packed with military strategies and firsthand accounts, this book is perfect for readers fascinated by the complexities of guerilla warfare and counter-insurgency.
Fun Fact:
The Selous Scouts were so effective that they were responsible for nearly 70% of guerrilla deaths during the Rhodesian Bush War.
Category: Zimbabwe History
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7. A Handful of Hard Men: The SAS and the Battle for Rhodesia by Hannes Wessels
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5 stars, 2,347 ratings)
Wessels recounts the Rhodesian SAS’s story, their bravery, and the battles they fought during the country’s final years as Rhodesia. This is a detailed and action-packed read that highlights both military and personal struggles.
Why You’ll Love It:
With a focus on both the battlefield and the personal stories of the men, this book provides a well-rounded look at the SAS’s role in the fight to maintain Rhodesia’s control.
Fun Fact:
Some of the men in the Rhodesian SAS went on to join the British SAS after Zimbabwe’s independence.
Category: Zimbabwe History
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6. Cocktail Hour Under the Tree of Forgetfulness by Alexandra Fuller
⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.3/5 stars, 1,706 ratings)
In this follow-up to her previous memoirs, Fuller returns to Zimbabwe to explore her family’s life post-independence. This book is filled with both joy and tragedy, painting a vivid picture of life in rural Zimbabwe during and after the war.
Why You’ll Love It:
Fuller’s vivid descriptions and captivating narrative make this a powerful memoir that connects personal stories with Zimbabwe’s broader historical context.
Fun Fact:
The “tree of forgetfulness” in the title refers to a place where the family used to gather and reflect on the past, leaving behind the painful memories of war.
Category: Zimbabwe History
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5. A Handful of Hard Men: The SAS and the Battle for Rhodesia (Audiobook) by Hannes Wessels
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5 stars, 2,347 ratings)
This audiobook brings the thrilling action of the Rhodesian SAS directly to your ears. Perfect for those who prefer to listen to history while on the go, Wessels’ compelling storytelling comes alive in this audio version.
Why You’ll Love It:
If you’re an auditory learner or simply enjoy listening to action-packed military stories, this audiobook offers an immersive experience of Rhodesian history.
Fun Fact:
The Rhodesian SAS often faced forces that were far superior in number, but their tactics and endurance helped them succeed in numerous missions.
Category: Zimbabwe History
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4. The Golden Rhinoceros: Histories of the African Middle Ages by François-Xavier Fauvelle
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.3/5 stars, 113 ratings)
Though not exclusively about Zimbabwe, Fauvelle’s work offers valuable insights into the broader context of African history, which is critical for understanding Zimbabwe’s place in medieval trade and cultural exchanges.
Why You’ll Love It:
Fauvelle’s book is well-researched and offers readers a deeper understanding of Africa’s pre-colonial history, challenging many Western misconceptions about the continent.
Fun Fact:
The golden rhinoceros that the book is named after is a real artifact from the Kingdom of Mapungubwe, which is believed to have been an early cultural predecessor to Great Zimbabwe.
Category: Zimbabwe History
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3. The Fear: Robert Mugabe and the Martyrdom of Zimbabwe by Peter Godwin
⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.3/5 stars, 149 ratings)
Peter Godwin gives a raw and harrowing account of Zimbabwe under Robert Mugabe’s regime. He details the violence and oppression that characterized Mugabe’s later years in power, showing how the country’s hopes for freedom turned into despair.
Why You’ll Love It:
This book is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the darker side of Zimbabwe’s post-independence history. Godwin’s journalistic style makes this a gripping and informative read.
Fun Fact:
Peter Godwin himself was born in Zimbabwe (then Rhodesia), and his personal connection to the country adds depth to his storytelling.
Category: Zimbabwe History
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2. Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight: An African Childhood by Alexandra Fuller
⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.3/5 stars, 4,138 ratings)
Fuller’s bestselling memoir recounts her childhood in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), capturing the emotional highs and lows of growing up during the country’s turbulent years. It’s a poignant tale of family, war, and survival.
Why You’ll Love It:
Fuller’s sharp wit and deep emotional insight make this memoir a standout. Her ability to blend personal stories with historical events creates a narrative that is both informative and deeply moving.
Fun Fact:
Fuller’s parents were white settlers in Rhodesia, and her upbringing during the bush war gives readers a unique glimpse into life during that era.
Category: Zimbabwe History
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1. Three Sips of Gin: Dominating the Battlespace with Rhodesia’s famed Selous Scouts by Timothy Bax
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.4/5 stars, 1,396 ratings)
Timothy Bax’s memoir is the definitive account of the Selous Scouts, one of the most effective military units during the Rhodesian Bush War. Through his vivid storytelling, Bax takes readers inside the minds and hearts of these soldiers, offering a rare glimpse into their world.
Why You’ll Love It:
This is an intense, firsthand account of war from the perspective of an insider. Bax’s storytelling is both gritty and reflective, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in military history or the history of Rhodesia.
Fun Fact:
The Selous Scouts were so feared by their enemies that they would often go undercover as guerrilla fighters, creating confusion and chaos among insurgent ranks.
Category: Zimbabwe History
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