boer war: first part of the war (october 1899- September 1900) Flashcards
What numerical advantage did the Boers initially have over the British?
The Boers had 35,000 men in the field while the British first army corps didn’t arrive until November 18th 1899
How did the Boers reliance on the siege warfare impact the early phases of the war?
It allowed the British time to bring reinforcements, diminishing the Boers early numerical superiority
Why did sir George White retreat to ladysmith?
Fearing a Boer attack after General Penn-Symons was killed and the costly British victory at Talana Hill.
How did the Battle of Modderspuit affect the siege of Ladysmith?
The British sortie against Boer artillery positions failed disastrously, with 140 killed and over 1,000 captured, trapping White in Ladysmith.
Who led the defence of Mafeking, and how did the Boers respond?
Robert Baden-Powell raised 1,200 local men to lead raids, prompting Piet Cronje to besiege Mafeking with 7,000 Boers.
Why could Kimberley withstand a prolonged siege?
The diamond mining town had strong supplies, tying up 7,500 Boers and giving the British time to reinforce.
What difficulties did Milner face in Cape Colony during the Boer invasion?
The government of Cape Colony hesitated to declare martial law, as 10,000 Cape Dutch joined the invading commandos.
Why might the Cape government have been uncooperative?
Strong cultural and political ties between the Cape Dutch and the Boers.
What strategic mistake did Buller make after arriving on 31st October 1899?
Instead of directly attacking Boer heartlands, he divided his forces to relieve sieged towns like Kimberley, Mafeking, and Ladysmith.
What events define “Black Week” (10–15 December 1899)?
- 10th December: Gatacre’s defeat at Stromberg (700 British casualties).
- 11th December: Lord Methuen’s retreat at Magersfontein (900 British casualties).
- 15th December: Buller’s failure at Colenso (1,400 British casualties; only 8 Boer losses).
Why were the Boers so successful during Black Week?
Superior defensive strategies, effective use of smokeless Mauser rifles, and the British command’s lack of adaptability.
What changes did Lord Roberts implement after taking command in January 1900?
- Emphasis on reconnaissance before attacks.
- Avoidance of mass frontal assaults.
- Increased use of artillery and infantry cover.
How did Kitchener improve British mobility?
By reducing reliance on railways and introducing an improvised system of wagons.
What impact did Black Week have on British recruitment?
A surge of enthusiasm led to 180,000 troops being sent to Southern Africa by January 1900.
When and how was Kimberley relieved?
On 15th February 1900 by General John French.
What was the outcome of the Battle of Paardeberg?
Cronje and 4,000 Boers surrendered on 28th February 1900 after being encircled by Roberts.
What was the result of the Battle of Spion Kop in January 1900?
Poor communication and conflicting orders led to British forces retreating, suffering 1,350 casualties.
What delayed Roberts’ advance after capturing Bloemfontein on 13th March 1900?
Supply shortages, typhoid outbreaks, and an overwhelmed field hospital system.
When was Mafeking relieved, and what was its significance in Britain?
Relieved on 17th May 1900, leading to massive celebrations across Britain.
How many troops did Britain commit to the war by early 1900?
180,000, the largest force Britain had ever sent overseas.
Which British-controlled territories sent volunteers?
Southern Africa, Canada, and New Zealand
What made Boer marksmanship so effective?
They used smokeless Mauser rifles with a range of up to 2,000 yards, allowing accurate and stealthy fire.
How did Boer defensive strategies outmatch British tactics?
By occupying prepared positions, using terrain effectively, and avoiding direct confrontations.
