Bittereinder facts for kids

This plaque remembers the people who died in the camps during the 1899-1902 war.

The Bittereinders were a group of Boer fighters who kept fighting against the British Empire during the last part of the Second Boer War (1899–1902). Their name means "bitter enders" in Afrikaans, showing they wanted to fight until the very end.

By late 1900, the main Boer armies had been mostly beaten by the British. But some Boer leaders decided to keep fighting using different tactics. They formed small groups that attacked quickly and then disappeared. This was called a guerrilla war.

Even though it seemed hard to win, some Boers wanted to keep fighting. Others thought it was time to make peace. The decision to keep fighting was made stronger because the British had set up special camps. Many Boer families were kept in these camps, and conditions were very difficult.

The term "Bittereinders" can also describe any group that wants to keep fighting and never give up. It means they have a strong "fighting spirit" and will go to the "bitter end."

Who Were the Bittereinders?

The Bittereinders were Boer soldiers who refused to surrender. They believed in fighting for their independence until the very last moment. They were determined to resist British rule in South Africa.

Why Did They Keep Fighting?

These fighters had strong reasons to continue the war. They wanted to protect their land and their way of life. They also felt very strongly about the difficult conditions in the camps where their families were held. This made them even more determined to resist.

The End of the War

Eventually, the Second Boer War ended in 1902. A peace treaty was signed, and the Boer republics became part of the British Empire. Even after the war, some Bittereinders found it hard to accept the peace terms.

What Happened After the War?

Some Bittereinders, like Deneys Reitz, chose to leave South Africa rather than agree to the peace. He went to live in Madagascar for a while. This shows how strongly they felt about not giving up.

Later Events

Years later, in 1914, another event showed similar feelings. This was called the Maritz rebellion. Some Boers did not want South Africa to join the British side in World War I. This was because Germany had helped the Boers during the Second Boer War. These Boers still felt a strong connection to their past struggles.