Slogging Over Africa: The Boer Wars 1815-1902

by Michael Barthorp

When the Boer settlers left British-ruled Cape Colony to conquer new territories for themselves, few imagined they would find themselves fighting the British for their independence. But the discovery of gold and diamonds in the Transvaal led to a conspiracy to incorporate the Boer republics into the British Empire. No-one – at least in London or Cape Town – imagined these ‘farmers’ could oppose a modern European army. But they did.

The Boers savaged a British column at Majuba Hill and an uneasy peace endured for another ten years.

Full-scale war broke out again in 1899 with the Boers enjoying considerable international support.

Genres: History

176 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1987

About the author

Michael John Barthorp was a British historian and writer, specializing in military history and military uniforms. He lived in Jersey, Channel Islands.

Barthorp attended Wellington College until the end of the Second World War. In September 1945, he joined the Rifle Brigade under universal conscription and was demobilised in 1958. After some time with the Royal Hampshire Territorials, he exchanged for a regular commission in the Northamptonshire Regiment in which his family had served for three generations.

Major Barthorp retired from service in 1968, to become a military historian and writer. He was a member of the Victorian Military Society and contributed to their magazine "Soldiers of the Queen".

Reviews

[Davud Juffe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very comprehensive book, quick read that doesn't leave too much out but not a dry slog like the title.

[Steven Monrad · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good summary of the Boer 'white vs. white' wars
but
mostly very detailed accounts of battles, maneuvers, personnel down to details of weapons,equipment, uniforms and analysis of fighting styles