John Mackenzie, South African missionary and diplomat, was born on August 30, 1835 in Knockando, Scotland. In 1854 he joined the London Missionary Society, which sent him to South Africa in 1858. In 1860 Mackenzie undertook a trek through Bechuanaland (present-day Botswana) via Shoshong to the Zambesi and in 1863 he visited Mzilikazi, first king of the Ndebele. From 1867 onward Mackenzie pleaded for the occupation of the Far Interior by Britain. Offered the post of Commissioner of Southern Bechuanaland, he was debarred from accepting by the London Missionary Society. His renewed appeals for British intervention led to the occupation of Bechuanaland in 1884 and his appointment as British Commissioner. Mackenzie died in Kimberly, South Africa on March 23, 1899.
From the description of John Mackenzie papers, ca. 1858-1899 (inclusive), [microform]. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 122501472
