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Bataung Clan — History & Meaning

Sotho clan · Sesotho

Totem tau (lion)

History & origin

Bataung ("people of the lion") are a major Sotho-Tswana clan venerating the lion (tau). They spread through the Transvaal and into the Free State and Caledon valley. A celebrated Bataung leader was Moletsane, chief of the Bataung who became an important ally and subordinate chief under Moshoeshoe I during the consolidation of the Basotho in the early-to-mid 19th century, fighting in several of Moshoeshoe's campaigns. Bataung communities are found in Lesotho, the Free State and the former Transvaal.

Associated surnames

Surnames that share this clan: Motaung, Taung, Moletsane, Lekhetho.

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.

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