Cecil Rhodes (1853-1902) was a British imperialist, businessman, politician, and mining magnate who played a major role in the expansion of the British Empire in Africa during the late 19th century. He founded the De Beers diamond company and was a driving force behind the colonisation of Rhodesia (now Zambia and Zimbabwe) and the creation of the British South Africa Company. Rhodes was also a strong advocate of British expansionism and believed in the supremacy of the Anglo-Saxon race. He is a controversial figure due to his involvement in colonialism and racial views.
