Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a small, landlocked country in Southern Africa bordered by South Africa and Mozambique. Its history is shaped by the Swazi people, who established the Swazi monarchy in the 18th century under King Ngwane III. During the late 19th century, Eswatini, like much of the region, faced European colonial encroachment and came under British rule as a protectorate in 1903. Despite colonial influence, the Swazi monarchy managed to preserve significant autonomy and cultural traditions. In 1968, Eswatini gained independence from Britain, and the nation has since remained one of the world's few remaining absolute monarchies, led by King Mswati III since 1986. Eswatini is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, including annual ceremonies such as the Umhlanga Reed Dance, and maintains a dual legal system combining traditional Swazi law and modern governance.