If you were to explore the world alphabetically , you ’d find 27 countries start with " s " — like Spain , Sweden and South Africa — each with its own rich story and vibrant civilization . But when you get to " X , " the map get out a blank ; no countries set about with that elusive letter .
When you get to the remnant of the alphabet , countries that bulge out with " Z"may be few and far between , but their histories backpack a tangible biff .
From the dynamical landscapes and ethnical heritage of Zambia and Zimbabwe to the historic significance of former nations like Zaire and Zululand , these countries agree limited tales and traditions .
Countries That Start With the Letter ‘Z’
Currently , only two countries start with the letter " Z , " and they are both located in the straggle continent of Africa . Zambia and Zimbabwe might be neighbors , but they each have their own unique flair and intriguing story . Let ’s dive into what makes these two Zs so special .
Zambia
Zambia is named after the mighty Zambezi River , a set feature of the area ’s geographics . locate in southern Africa , Zambia is a landlocked commonwealth bordered by eight other nations .
When Zambia gained independence from British colonial rule in 1964 , the name was choose to symbolize a fresh start and a nod to its natural heritage . The Zambezi , which means " Great River , " reflects the area ’s productive landscape painting and abundant water system resources .
One of the Zambezi River ’s most spectacular features isVictoria Falls , located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe . As one of the largest and most famous waterfall in the world , it ’s locally known as " The Smoke That Thunders . " It ’s a muckle that ’ll leave you speechless ( and likely a bit damp ) .
And with water supply come beast : Zambia is also renowned for its incredible wildlife . This paradise for safari partisan offer a hazard to see the Big Five — the Leo , leopard , elephant , rhinoceros and Cape buffalo , originally make by hunter for their difficulty to James Henry Leigh Hunt on fundament — and more .
For all of you foodies out there , do n’t overleap tryingnshima , a staple maize dish that ’s as Zambian as it gets . It ’s usually serve with zest , which can let in vegetables , meat or fish .
Zambia is also one of the most urbanized country in Africa , with a pregnant parcel of its population last in cities like the majuscule , Lusaka . Visitors can explore vivacious markets , ascertain out the Lusaka National Museum and savour the city ’s bustling nightlife .
Along with its bustling urban center nub , Zambia boasts legion national Park and protect domain , reflect a blend of urban and natural environments .
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe got its name from the ancient metropolis of Great Zimbabwe , ahistorical siteknown for its impressive stone ruins . When the countrygained independencefrom British linguistic rule in 1980 , the name was choose to mull over its plenteous ethnic inheritance and break away from its colonial past as Rhodesia .
The name " Zimbabwe " is infer from " dzimba - dza - mabwe , " which means " house of stone " in the Shona language — fitting for a country with such monumental architecture .
Zimbabwe shares more than just a starting letter and a continent with Zambia . Both countries are home to the majestic Victoria Falls , one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World , straddling their border . Both nations also provide vivacious wildlife experience with numerous national green perfect for safaris .
For culinary explorers , Zimbabwe ’s theme song corn dish , sadza , is quite exchangeable to Zambia ’s nshima . Sadza is a staple food in Zimbabwe , similar to polenta or grits , made from exquisitely footing maize ( corn ) meal . It is a versatile dish that organise the fundament of many Zimbabwean repast .
To fix sadza , the Captain Cook gradually adds maize meal to boiling water and conjure until the mixture reaches a thick-skulled , placid consistence . The sadza usually cooks until it draw by from the sides of the pot and the preparer can easily mold it with their hands .
In summation to its rich history and culinary delights , Zimbabwe offer a smorgasbord of activities for visitors . Explore the stunningHwange National Park , renowned for its expectant elephant population and diverse wildlife . Or , visit the ancient ruins of Great Zimbabwe , aUNESCO World Heritage sitethat offer a glimpse into the nation ’s storied past .
dangerous undertaking seeker can enjoy white - water rafting and bungee jumping at Victoria Falls , while those expect for a more relaxed experience can take a sunset sail on theZambezi River .
Historical Countries That Began With ‘Z’
We ’ve already explored the modern-day nations that start with " Z , " but there ’s more to unveil in history . Let ’s dig into the narrative of Zaire and Zululand , two diachronic entities that play essential roles in determine their realm ' pasts .
Zaire
Zaire was the name of the Democratic Republic of the Congo from 1971 to 1997 . This name change occur under the rule ofMobutu Sese Seko , who calculate to shed the nation ’s compound past and promote an authentic African personal identity .
The name Zaire stand for this new era of independence and pride . However , after Mobutu was ousted , the country revert to its original name , the Democratic Republic of the Congo . Despite the change back , the geological era of Zaire remains a significant chapter in key African chronicle , strike off a full stop of both intense despotism and home indistinguishability transformation .
Zululand
Zululand was a realm in what is now South Africa , striking in the former nineteenth century under leaders likeShaka Zulu . The Zulu Kingdom was a redoubtable force in Southern Africa , known for its military artistry and organizational accomplishment .
This kingdom play a major role in the region ’s chronicle before being annexed by the British Empire in 1887 . Zululand stay a symbolisation of Zulu pridefulness and ethnic heritage , with its history reflecting the resilience and forte of the Zulu people .
The legacy of Zululand is still evident today in the ethnic pattern and societal structures of the Zulu Carry Amelia Moore Nation .
6 Ways Countries Get Their Names
As you might imagine , a wad of mentation proceed into this complex and significant process , which is for the most part influenced by historical , ethnical , political and geographical factor .
We created this clause in alignment with AI technology , then made sure it was fact - checked and edit by a HowStuffWorks editor program .
