Seretse Khama, Botswana's first president and an instrumental figure in the nation's independence, passed away on July 13th, 1980 at the age of 59. Born on July 1st, 1921 in Serowe, Botswana, Khama was educated in South Africa and graduated with a Bachelor's degree in law from the University of South Africa in 1949. When Botswana gained its independence from Great Britain, Khama was appointed president and used his composture to promote democracy, freedom and justice for his people. Khama also advocated for interracial equality and was determined to maintain diplomatic relations with other African countries. Throughout his lifetime, Khama served as an advocate and leader for his people and will be remembered not only for sparking independence and democracy in Botswana, but also for advancing civil rights and human rights for all.