The name Barotse refers to an extensive group of people who occupy the Western part of Zambia, portions of Angola, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. They also may be called Barotsi, Barutse, Bulozi, Marotse, Rotse, Rozi, and Lozi. The original name of the Barotse was Aluyi. For purposes of this entry, the name Barotse will refer to all of the people mentioned.

Barotse history is complex. The Barotse people are organized with a paramount king and many subkings. Indeed, it has been said that it is a nation of royals because of the proliferation of kingships. Arriving in their present area around the 16th century under the leadership of Mboo Mwanasilandu, the Barotse established their capital at Lealui. In the vicinity of the capital, the Mashona people, the ...