It is with a heavy heart that we announce the death of Cecil John Rhodes, a South African businessman, mining magnate, and politician who died on March 26, 1902 at the age of 48. Born in Bishop’s Stortford, England in 1853, Cecil became interested in business at an early age and decided to emigrate to South Africa in order to seize the economic opportunities after gold was discovered there. In 1888, he established De Beers Consolidated Mines which went on to become the largest diamond production company in the world. Throughout his life, Rhodes was a staunch believer in the power of Britain’s Imperialism. He fought to extend its influence by founding two Rhodes scholarships, and was a major influence on the development of British colonies which are now known as Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana. His devotion to his nation and its people was impressive, and he was elected Prime Minister of the Cape Colony in 1890. As a leader, he worked diligently to better the lives of South African citizens by introducing progressive financial, agricultural and educational reforms. Rhodes died at his home in Muizenberg, Cape Province leaving behind a legacy as one of the most recognisable faces of Britain’s colonialism. He will be remembered for his tireless work to expand the influence of the Empire and his dedication to improving the lives of South Africans.