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Countries that Start with Z: Complete List & Examples
The English language features two countries whose names begin with the letter "Z." These countries are both located in Africa, each with its unique culture, history, and geography.
Countries that Start with Z: List
Here is a list of countries that start with the letter "Z":
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Zambia
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Zimbabwe
These countries are neighbors located in Southern Africa and share some geographical features, including part of the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the world's largest waterfalls. Both countries were formerly part of British colonial territories in Africa.
Countries That End with Z
Currently, there are no internationally recognized countries whose names end with the letter "Z" in English. This makes "Z" one of the less common letters to appear at the end of country names.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many countries start with Z?
There are exactly two countries that start with the letter Z: Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Where are the Z countries located?
Both Zambia and Zimbabwe are located in Southern Africa. They share a border along the Zambezi River, and both countries include portions of Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
What did these countries used to be called?
Before independence:
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Zambia was known as Northern Rhodesia
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Zimbabwe was known as Southern Rhodesia, and briefly as Rhodesia
Both countries were named after Cecil Rhodes, a British businessman and colonial figure, before adopting their current names upon gaining independence.
What does the name "Zimbabwe" mean?
The name "Zimbabwe" comes from the Shona term "dzimba dza mabwe," which means "houses of stone" or "stone buildings," referring to the Great Zimbabwe ruins, an ancient stone city built between the 11th and 15th centuries.