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Baroleng Clan — History & Meaning
Sotho clan · Sesotho
Totem Tholo (kudu) - English: kudu.
History & origin
Baroleng is a rendering of Barolong. The Barolong are one of the senior Tswana peoples, tracing descent to the founder-king Morolong (reigned c.1240). The name is linked to 'rola', referring to metal forging/hammering, and the Barolong were renowned iron-smelters and smiths across southern Africa. Their totem is the tholo (kudu). Under King Tau (c.1660) the kingdom was consolidated; his sons Ratlou, Tshidi, Seleka and Rapulana founded the four major Barolong houses (Barolong boo Ratlou, boo Tshidi, boo Seleka, boo Rapulana) that spread across present-day Botswana, North West and the Free State. The Batlhaping branched off from the Barolong. Mafikeng/Mahikeng and Thaba Nchu are historic Barolong centres.
Associated surnames
Surnames that share this clan: Barolong, Morolong, Bo-Ratlou, Bo-Tshidi, Bo-Seleka, Bo-Rapulana.
We publish the full diboko (clan praises) only once we can verify them against documented tradition — for this clan they are still being confirmed. If you can share an authoritative version, corrections are warmly welcomed.