Subject
South African War, 1899-1902 -- Causes Books
Best books
Arthur Conan Doyle
The War in South Africa, Its Cause and Conduct
"The War in South Africa, Its Cause and Conduct" by Arthur Conan Doyle is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book discusses the complex background leading to the Boer War, exploring the historical, political, and social dynamics between the British Empire and the Boer republics. It delves into the injustices faced by the Dutch settlers (Boers) and the reasons behind their resistance against British governance, aiming to provide a balanced perspective on the war. The opening of the book establishes the historical context necessary to understand the South African conflict. Conan Doyle discusses the arrival of the Dutch at the Cape of Good Hope in the 17th century and traces the evolving relationship between the Boers and the British. He describes the atmosphere of growing discontent among the Boers, fueled by issues such as taxation without representation, injustices from the Boer authorities, and the struggle for political rights for the Uitlanders (mainly British immigrants). The narrative sets the stage for the accumulation of tensions ultimately leading to war, highlighting the misunderstandings and grievances that both sides harbored.
C. H. Thomas
Origin of the Anglo-Boer War Revealed: The Conspiracy of the 19th Century Unmasked (2nd ed.)
"Origin of the Anglo-Boer War Revealed: The Conspiracy of the 19th Century Unmasked" by C.H. Thomas is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work seeks to explore the underlying causes and conspiracies that Thomas argues led to the Anglo-Boer War, particularly attributing blame to the Afrikaner Bond and its influence on various political dynamics between the English and Boer populations in South Africa. Thomas's perspective reflects a complex intertwining of history, nationalism, and colonial interactions. At the start of the book, Thomas outlines his intention to reveal the contentious origins of the Anglo-Boer War, emphasizing the role of the Afrikaner Bond as a secretive organization that manipulated the Boer populace against the British. He draws on nearly four decades of experience with the Boer people, expressing a deep familiarity with their history and grievances. Thomas argues that, although the Boers may appear guilty, they have largely been duped into conflict by outside influence, and much of the responsibility rests with powerful figures in Holland and the Afrikaner Bond. The opening sets the stage for a detailed analysis of events leading up to the war, positioning the reader to investigate the complexities of colonial power, identity, and conflict in South Africa.
Josephine Elizabeth Grey Butler
Native Races and the War
"Native Races and the War" by Josephine Elizabeth Grey Butler is a historical account written during the late 19th century. This work addresses the complex issues surrounding the treatment of native races in South Africa, particularly in relation to the war and the legislative context of slavery within British and Boer governance. Butler aims to provide a voice for the oppressed by gathering testimonies from various witnesses, including native chiefs and others, to shed light on the injustices faced by the indigenous populations. The opening of the book sets the stage for a detailed examination of the interplay between colonial power dynamics and the plight of native peoples in South Africa. Butler begins with a compelling apology for contributing yet another discourse on the South African question, arguing that future peace must be grounded in justice for both white and colored populations. She outlines the relevant historical backdrop, including the abolition of slavery and previous treaties that promised protection and rights to the natives. Through the testimonies and appeals from various native leaders, Butler emphasizes the profound disappointment and disillusionment among these communities, who feel betrayed by the shifting political landscape and the broken promises of the British government. This opening portion evokes a sense of urgency and ethical responsibility towards the indigenous people and sets a critical tone for the rest of the book.
Jan Christiaan Smuts
A Century of Wrong
"A Century of Wrong" by Jan Christiaan Smuts is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work focuses on the grievances of the Boer people regarding British colonial policy in South Africa, critiquing the long-standing injustices and conflicts between the two groups. It serves as an official exposition of the Boer case, offering insights into their perspective during a pivotal moment in South African history. The opening of the book features a preface by W.T. Stead, emphasizing the urgency for the Boers to articulate their struggles and the injustices they have faced under British rule. It sets a tone of impending conflict, reflecting on a century of the Boer fight for autonomy and survival against colonial oppression. The narrative introduces F.W. Reitz, the State Secretary of the South African Republic, as the main voice for the Boers, detailing historical events and the political landscape leading to their current struggle. Through this introduction, readers are prepared for a detailed examination of events such as the Great Trek and the annexation of the Transvaal, which shaped the Boer identity and their claims for sovereignty amidst imperial conquest.
Recently surfaced classics