Black Week
Quick Summary
"Black Week" refers to a series of defeats for British forces against Boer commandos in December 1899 during the South African War (1899-1902). These engagements, including battles at Colenso, Stormberg, and Magersfontein, highlighted the Boers' military effectiveness and the British command's dated tactics.1
The South African War was fought between the British Empire and the Boer republics, primarily over British imperial ambitions and Boer desires to preserve their independence. The conflict saw significant use of Black Africans by both sides, with at least 10,000 fighting for the British. The war concluded with the Treaty of Vereeniging in 1902, which solidified British control but deferred decisions on Black political rights.1
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South African WarInitial Boer success…during what became known as Black Week (December 10–15, 1899).
Read More…during what became known as Black Week (December 10–15, 1899).
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South AfricaThe South African War (1899–1902)…man’s war,” both sides used Blacks extensively as labor, and at least 10,000 Blacks fought for the British.
Read More…man’s war,” both sides used Blacks extensively as labor, and at least 10,000 Blacks fought for the British.
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