The Second Boer War, changing public opinions to the war (1899-1902)

Question 1

Which battle had a big impact on public opinion, and why?

Answer 1

• Spion Kop
• There were photographs of dead British soldiers on the hill made the shocking reality clear to the public

Question 2

How big of an impact did war news have for soldiers?

Answer 2

• The impact could actually be quite big, as Queen Victoria sent 100,000 tins of chocolate to the soldiers along with knitted clothes

Question 3

Name an influential journalist who reported on the Second Boer War. Who did they report for?

Answer 3

• Winston Churchill
• The Morning Post

Question 4

What were Churchill’s reports like? Give 3 details.

Answer 4

• He generally supported the actions of the army (he supported the British Empire)
• However, he did reveal some deficiencies in the army
• His reports were uncensored