How and why was Lesotho colonized?

Lesotho was colonized primarily due to its strategic location and the interests of British colonial powers in Southern Africa. The Basotho people, led by King Moshoeshoe I, initially resisted external pressures but faced threats from Boer settlers and internal conflicts. In 1868, to protect the Basotho from the encroaching Boer settlers, the British declared Lesotho a protectorate, effectively establishing colonial rule. This move aimed to stabilize the region and ensure British control over trade routes and resources.