WHODUNNIT?

Subject: WHODUNNIT? Thu Aug 20, 2015 4:14 pm

Im starting a university degree in September and have to write a thesis on a possible historical event! what better than supposing that the camp at Isandlwana, Lord Chelmsford and Rorkes Drift were destroyed within a 24 hour period? How would the war have progressed? Im not asking anyone too write my thesis for me, but an opinion would be welcome.

regards C Morant Hennessey

Posts : 2871 Join date : 2010-06-02

In my view not much would have changed. The loss of RD would not have been significant. The loss of the other half of the central column would have been more significant, but not really any more catastrophic than had already occurred. The invasion was already stalled, almost before it had begun. Wolseley would have led the second invasion, probably with an even greater force. I don't think it likely that Cetshwayo would have invaded Natal, but even if he had it would only have ensured an even more ferocious response from Britain. Once significant numbers of Imperial and Colonial troops had been killed it was too late to pursue the original British policy of non-engagement. The die had been cast and Cetshwayo could not be allowed to prevail.

Steve

Subject: Re: WHODUNNIT? Thu Aug 20, 2015 5:46 pm

So just say Lord Chelmsford's force was annihilated too, And Ceteswayo's forces advanced deep into Natal would the local volunteer groups have been able to check the Zulu army? I seriously doubt they could have.

C Morant Hennessey

Subject: Whodunnit ? Fri Aug 21, 2015 3:28 am

Cetewayo in reality , wouldn't have gone into Natal , he just didn't have the logistical backing for his army , if he did have the logistics , he could well have laid waste to Natal , the Colonial forces certainly couldn't have stopped him , but Cetewayo was never planning to invade Natal as he didn't wish to be seen as the aggressor , he was wanting to be perceived as the aggrieved ! . I agree with Steve , the same result would have taken place , Wolseley would have led the army and a much bigger one at that ! . Possibly a few more massacres along the way , but the result would still be an English victory , albeit a rather costly one at that .
90th