Why did it so long for someone to realise that Red Tunics and White helmets were not the ideal clothing to where during a war, The British fought the Zulu’s and many other wars wearing this attire, But then during the Boer war the English seem to grasp the fact, that perhaps this uniform was not a good idea and changed their uniforms to make them less of a target.

Who was the Brains behind this brilliant suggestion? "Let's change the uniform to khaki to blend in with the surroundings."

CTSG In the 2nd Afghan War in 1879 khaki was the norm. And I think your find Khaki was worn as early as the Indian Mutiny. And I have read somewhere that in the Transvaal War, there were British troops from different regiments in scarlet and khaki on the same battlefield.

S.D

Thanks for that S.D. You learn something everyday. I thought it came about in the Boer War.

S.D.

Are you sure that is correct. Was it not the high officer casualty rate that helped to bring about the change in uniform?

The Boers showed disapproval and in 1880 revolted. The Boers clothed in earth tone khaki clothes, while the British wore bright red, a bleak contrast to the African countryside, which enabled the Boers snipers to take out the British troops from a distance. Majuba Hill was a good example.


Old H. it wasn't just the uniform as much as the shiny buttons and ostentatious emblems of rank. Which proved to be an ideal target to the Boer Snipers.

I read that Highland regiments in Natal developed aprons to cover their coloured kilts and sporrans. Near the end of the war the uniform of choice was a slouch hat, drab tunic and trousers.

At Majuba Hill of course the 92nd Regiment who had been transferred from India were dressed in Knaki but being
Highlanders and wearing kilts it did not help them very much from the Boer fire

Regards

Keith