The Boer War

In more than one respect, the Boer war in South Africa was a surprise to the world – two tiny Boer republics presented a defiant ultimatum to a great empire, fought with skill and deadly effect, and some of the British colonies that were supposed to be the most independent eagerly mustered volunteer regiments to aid the mother country. The causes and motive of the struggle were little understood by most of the world. Aside from its political significance, the conflict was one of the most unique and picturesque wars ever waged. What follows are the classic accounts of the best writers of the day representing the different points of view - Arthur Conan Doyle, James F.J. Archibald, and J. Castell Hopkins - edited and condensed with modern readers in mind.