Real cause of the Zulu War

Posts : 748 Join date : 2009-10-18

This is going to sound a bit of a stupid question. But in simple language. What was the real cause of the Zulu War (It was not just the ultimatums) I'm looking for an easy read and understandable answer without all the unecessary bits in between. Any replies welcome or source link. Wasing the spears was mentioned, but to be honest, that book is hard going. A bit like War & Peace buy shorter. Rolling Eyes

Mr G.

Subject: Re: Real cause of the Zulu War Thu Jun 17, 2010 10:38 pm

There is a publication on the Causes or of the Zulu War of 1879 By Damain O’Connor. It’s not long winded, and will give you exactly what you’re looking for. I think its probably one of the best publications there is in this field. The problem is I can’t remember where I have seen it. Infact I did print a copy off when I came across it. I will have a look, when I have time. But if any other members know the publication I’m talking about please let Mr G. Know.

Subject: real cause of the zulu war . Fri Jun 18, 2010 12:24 am

Hi Pete.
Is this the book you mean ?.

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cheers 90th.

Subject: Re: Real cause of the Zulu War Fri Jun 18, 2010 7:20 am

Mr G
As simply put as possible: Imperial expansion.
The Zulu kingdom was a key buffer between the colony of Natal, the Orange Free State and the Transvaal. Frere saw it as a danger to have " a savage land" seperating these so called settled areas and so wanted it colonised.
He looked for an excuse and saw the appointment of the boundary commision ( Durnfords) as the way to cut back the Zulu territory. When Durnford found in favour of the Zulu he looked further. When Sihayos' sons crossed into Natal he had his excuse and took it. The conditions he set on a settlement were so severe the Zulus had no chance of complying. And so it began.

Sorry thats the smallest Nutshell I could come up with.

Possibly this is shorter." I want, you give, I take".

Regards

Subject: Re: Real cause of the Zulu War Fri Jun 18, 2010 8:38 am

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Subject: Re: Real cause of the Zulu War Fri Jun 18, 2010 9:19 am

Pete
My nutshell was smaller than yours Wink

Regards

Subject: real cause of the zulu war . Fri Jun 18, 2010 9:56 am

hi springbok.
I wouldnt be owning up to that . :lol!: :lol: .
cheers 90th.

Subject: Re: Real cause of the Zulu War Fri Jun 18, 2010 10:46 am

Ouch

Posts : 748 Join date : 2009-10-18

Thanks very much for your replies. Springbok your little one was easy to understand. But Damian O'Conners artical was excellent. Why can't they all write like that.

Posts : 9 Join date : 2010-06-14

Mr G
Have you tried the War File DVD series: "The History of Warfare" - The Zulu War 1879 from Cromwell publications ? this gives a simple overview of events leading to the war.
But beware that simple reads can lead to simplistic statements that can be ambiguous and not rigorous enough in the examination of the evidence!
Cheers