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Ruth Williams Khama

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Ruth Williams was born in London. She worked as an ambulance driver during the Second World War. In 1947, she met Seretse Khama at a dance. Seretse was a prince from the Bamangwato people. They fell in love and married in 1948.

Their marriage caused many problems. At that time, South Africa used a system called apartheid. This system kept people of different races apart. The British government wanted to keep peace with South Africa. Because of this, they told Seretse he could not go home. The couple had to live in England for many years. This was a time of exile.

Ruth was often lonely during this time. She had two cats named Pride and Prejudice. They were her close friends.

In 1956, the couple was finally allowed to return home. Seretse became a leader in his land. Later, Botswana became an independent nation. Seretse was the first president. Ruth was the first lady of Botswana. She served from 1966 to 1980.

163 words

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