The area now known as the Republic of Namibia was originally inhabited by Khoisan tribes: the San, Nama, and Damara. In the 14th century, Bantu tribes, including the Herero and Ovambo (collectively the OvaHerero), began migrating south from central Africa, displacing the Khoisan, often with violence.
From the late 18th century, the Oorlammers (Namas from the Cape Colony) crossed the Orange River and settled in what is now southern Namibia. Their encounters with the northern Namas were peaceful, and even the Rhenish missionaries who accompanied the Oorlam were well received. As they moved farther north, however, the Oorlam clashed with the OvaHerero around Windhoek, Gobabis, and Okahandja, who resisted their encroachment.
During this time, European traders supplied firearms to both parties, and it was inevitable that the Nama-HereroWar would break…
