The Boer War 1899–1902

Osprey Essential Histories #52

by Gregory Fremont-Barnes

Victorious in its previous campaigns in Africa against native armies, Britain now confronted an altogether different foe. The Boers proved to be formidable opponents, masterfully compensating for inferior numbers with grim determination, resourcefulness and strong religious faith. Their mobility, expert use of cover, and knowledge of the terrain, in which they employed powerful long-range magazine rifles, gave them initial advantages. By contrast the British suffered from inadequate transport, insufficient mounted troops and poor intelligence. Despite marshalling the immense resources of their empire, the British were to be severely tested in a war which one general described as 'the graveyard of many a soldier's reputation'.

Genres: History, Military History, Nonfiction, War, South Africa, Africa

96 pages, Paperback

First published April 20, 2003

Reviews

[Thomas Kanyak · Rating 4 out of 5]

British imperialism in its search for profit in the gold and diamond mines of the Transvaal and a precursor to WW1 and the future of war. Excellent account and a good read about this little known colonial war in southern Africa. The seeds of apartheid and future conflicts in South Africa, Rhodesia, Namibia and Angola sown in the treaty that ended this war.

[Lucius18 H]

So the British used lagers, burned villages, caused famine, killed kids and the boers fought for the Empire in ww1???
Pathetic

[Declan Waters · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the Osrey series of essential histories this length of conflict is almost perfect for the length and detail required (90 pages including pictures and maps).

I knew nothing about this conflict near the birth of South Africa but it was none-the-less a very interesting read about this conflict at the turn of the century and how it fit into the world history, and British Imperialism.

[Doug · Rating 3 out of 5]

This would likely be a little dry unless you had an interest in the subject. I thought I knew a good bit about the subject but I really did pick up a fair amount of new information- surprising in such a thin little book. Explains a lot about how South Africa has become what it is today.

[Lois · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was very helpful and extremely informative! I'd recommend it to anyone interested in British warfare or background reading to modern history studies.

[Alan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed it. No boring parts. Gave me a good overview of the war.