Boer War — VC Recipients

The Boer War, also called the Second Anglo-Boer War, occurred from 1899 to 1902. It was a conflict involving the British Empire. It also involved two independent Boer republics: the South African Republic (Transvaal) and the Orange Free State. Tensions over British imperial ambitions triggered the war. Control of rich gold mines in the Transvaal also played a role. Additionally, Boer resistance to British influence was a factor.

The war began with early Boer successes, but the British responded with a massive troop buildup. After capturing key Boer cities like Bloemfontein and Pretoria, the conflict turned into a prolonged guerrilla war. The British used harsh tactics to suppress Boer resistance. These included a scorched-earth policy. They also placed civilians in concentration camps where many died from disease and poor conditions. The war ended in 1902 with the Treaty of Vereeniging, which brought the Boer republics under British control. The conflict marked a significant shift in British imperial policy. It also prepared the way for the creation of the Union of South Africa in 1910.