Attached: 2 images Imagine this: a young girl is shipwrecked along South Africa's Wild Coast in the 1730s. She’s adopted by the amaMpondo people, grows up in their culture, and becomes a queen. This is the incredible story of Gquma, "The Roar of the Sea." 🧵 Bessie (later known as Gquma) was just a child when her ship sank near Lambasi Bay, in today’s Eastern Cape. Rescued by the amaMpondo, she was taken in and raised as one of their own, adapting fully to their way of life. Her name, Gquma, means "The Roar of the Sea," reflecting both her shipwreck origins and the community's poetic spirit. She wasn’t just a passive figure – she grew up to play a significant role in the tribe's history. Gquma first married Tshomane, a prince of the amaMpondo. After his tragic death, she married his successor, Sango, becoming his Great Wife. She earned respect for her wisdom and compassion, becoming deeply involved in the political life of the community. 👑 Many Xhosa royal families today trace their lineage back to Gquma. Her story is one of survival, cultural integration, and leadership. It's a powerful reminder of the deep interwoven histories that shape South Africa. 🇿🇦 Curious to dive deeper into her life? Hazel Crampton's The Sunburnt Queen explores Gquma’s story and other tales of shipwreck survivors who became part of South Africa's Indigenous communities. Highly recommend! 📚 Gquma’s journey is more than a historical footnote – it’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of cultural exchange. 🌍✨