Along with the bantustan of Ciskei to the south, Transkei was designated as one of the so-called homelands for Xhosa-speaking people.

Located in southeastern South Africa, Transkei was declared independent by South Africa in 1976, but was never recognized as independent by any other nation.

The majority of people living in Transkei were Xhosa, but Basotho made up a significant minority.