The Rhodesian government refers to the political system that existed in the former British colony of Southern Rhodesia, which unilaterally declared independence in 1965. This government was led by a white minority, primarily of British descent, and was characterized by its policies of racial segregation and discrimination against the black majority population. The government faced international condemnation and economic sanctions due to its refusal to transition to majority rule. This led to a protracted conflict with nationalist movements, ultimately resulting in the establishment of Zimbabwe in 1980, marking the end of Rhodesian governance and the beginning of a new era under majority rule.