What propelled the maddened rush to central and southern Africa? Why was Southern Rhodesia's colonisation unique - unlike any other? Was Rhodes a complete idiot to take on the British South Africa Company - or a driven genius? An overview of the incredible global drivers and events taking place just before the inauguration of King Lobengula.

Thank you John Posselt and the Zim Field Guide for those photographs and insights into Mother Patrick and her work. She achieved so much in her 36 years.

The photograph on the right is from the National Tapestry, showing the British South Africa Company badge at the top; bottom left the Royal Red Cross Medal awarded to Mother Patrick by Queen Victoria in 1898, right the granite Celtic Cross on her grave. The tapestry depicts Rhodes, Mother Patrick and the four other Dominican sisters in 1893.