Battle of Majuba Hill facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Majuba
Part of First Boer War
The Battle of Majuba, drawn by Richard Caton Woodville for the Illustrated London News
Date 27 February 1881 Location Majuba Hill, near Volksrust, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa 27°27′42″S 29°51′41″E / 27.4616°S 29.8613°E / -27.4616; 29.8613 (Battle of Majuba Hill) Result Strong Boer victory
Belligerents
South African Republic	United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland
Commanders and leaders
Nicolaas Smit Stephanus Roos Danie Malan Joachim Ferreira	Sir George Pomeroy Colley †
Strength
400-500 men	405 infantry
Casualties and losses
1 dead 5 wounded	92 dead 134 wounded 59 captured

The Battle of Majuba Hill was a very important fight during the First Boer War. It happened near Volksrust, South Africa on February 27, 1881.

What Was the Battle of Majuba Hill?

This battle might have been small, but it changed history. It led to a peace treaty between the British and the South African Republic. This treaty officially ended the First Boer War.

Why Was This Battle Important?

The Battle of Majuba Hill, along with two battles before it, showed the British how strong the Boers were. During the Second Anglo-Boer War, "Remember Majuba" became a special saying. It helped people remember the battle and encouraged them.

New Fighting Styles

The Boers used smart fighting methods during this battle. They used "fire and movement" tactics. This means some soldiers would shoot while others moved forward. This was a very modern way to fight for that time. It was many years ahead of what most armies were doing.

A Turning Point for an Empire?

Some important historians believe this defeat was a big moment for the British Empire. They think it might have been the start of the British Empire becoming less powerful over time.

Images for kids

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  Majuba Hill seen from Laing's Nek; buildings on the right include the museum.}}