Definition
Cecil Rhodes (1853-1902) was a British businessman, mining magnate, politician, and colonialist in Southern Africa who served as Prime Minister of the Cape Colony from 1890 to 1896. He was a strong believer in British imperialism and played a major role in the expansion of the British Empire. Rhodes founded the De Beers diamond company, which still dominates the diamond industry. Think of him as a powerful, yet controversial figure. His legacy is still debated today.