Mthethwa

The Mthethwa were a powerful people of southeastern Africa whose influence grew under their chief Dingiswayo. His authority embraced neighbouring chiefdoms, and among the young warriors who entered his service was Shaka of the Zulu. Around 1817 Dingiswayo and Shaka led their regiments against Matiwane of the Ngwane. Soon afterwards Dingiswayo was captured in conflict with Zwide's Ndwandwe and put to death. Accounts differ over why Shaka's forces did not assist him in the battle. Dingiswayo's death weakened Mthethwa power, and many of his warriors joined Shaka, who went on to build a larger Zulu kingdom.