The Lion of Sierra Leone

The Lion of Sierra Leone

The Lion of Sierra Leone is a title that can refer to two very different, yet equally significant things: a world-famous diamond and a revered historical figure. The Diamond: The 968.9-Carat Star of Sierra Leone This is the most common name for the Lion of Sierra Leone. It is one of the largest gem-quality diamonds ever discovered. The Lion of Sierra Leone was discovered on February 14, 1972, in the Diminco alluvial mines in the Kono District of Sierra Leone. The Lion of Sierra Leone weighs an incredible 968.9 carats in its rough state. It is the third-largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found (after the Cullinan and Excelsior diamonds). It was discovered by miners as part of a government-sponsored mining program. The rough diamond was cut into 17 individual stones. The largest of these is a 153.96-carat emerald-cut diamond, which was stolen from the American Museum of Natural History in a 1994 burglary and later recovered. Many of the other stones were also sold to private collectors. The discovery of this diamond was a source of immense national pride for Sierra Leone, a country whose economy is heavily reliant on diamond mining. At the same time, however, it is part of the complex and often tragic history of "blood diamonds" or "conflict diamonds," whose trade fueled a brutal civil war (1991–2002). And now to the historical figure: Sir Samuel Lewis (1843–1903). This is a historically and honorably worthy tribute. Sir Samuel Lewis was a prominent Sierra Leonean of the Krio ethnic group and is considered a national hero. Because of his intellect, leadership, and tireless dedication to his people, he is often called the "Lion of Sierra Leone." Samuel Lewis was the first Sierra Leonean to be knighted (1896) and a brilliant lawyer. Samuel Lewis fearlessly defended the rights of the Krio and all Sierra Leoneans against the overbearing colonial policies of the British administration. He was also the first mayor of Freetown. Samuel Lewis was a founding member and the first president of the Sierra Leonean branch of the National Congress of British West Africa, which campaigned for greater rights and self-determination. Known for his eloquent speeches and unwavering principles, Samuel Lewis embodied the strength and intelligence of his nation, like a lion. A statue of Sir Samuel Lewis stands in the center of Freetown—a lasting memorial to his legacy. So when someone speaks of the "Lion of Sierra Leone", they could either mean a legendary gemstone representing the country's mineral wealth, or a legendary man who embodies its spirit and intellect.