Majuba Day facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Majuba Day |
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|---|---|
| Date | 27 February |
| Next time | 27 February 2026 |
| Frequency | annual |
Majuba Day (which means Majuba Day in Afrikaans) was once a very important national holiday. People in the South African Republic celebrated it every year on February 27. This was between the First Boer War and the Second Boer War. The day got its name from the Battle of Majuba Hill. This battle happened near Volksrust, South Africa, on February 27, 1881. It was the main battle of the First Boer War.
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What Was Majuba Day?
Majuba Day was a special day to remember a big victory. It celebrated the Battle of Majuba Hill. In this battle, the Boers won against the British. The Boers were farmers of Dutch descent living in South Africa. This win was very important to them. It helped them gain back some independence.
The First Boer War
The First Boer War (1880-1881) was a fight between the British Empire and the Boers. The Boers wanted to be free from British rule. They lived in an area called the South African Republic. The Battle of Majuba Hill was the last major fight in this war. The Boers used clever tactics to defeat the British soldiers.
Why February 27 Was Important
The date February 27 became a symbol of Boer strength. It showed their ability to fight for their freedom. For many years, Majuba Day was a proud celebration. People remembered the bravery of their ancestors.
Majuba Day During the Second Boer War
The Second Boer War started in 1899. It was another big conflict between the British and the Boers. On February 27, 1900, something sad happened for the Boers. General Piet Cronjé, a Boer leader, surrendered to the British. This happened after a tough fight called the Battle of Paardeberg.
A Day of Loss
This surrender happened on the same date as Majuba Day. Paul Kruger, the president of the South African Republic, was very upset. He said, "The English have taken our Majuba Day away from us." This showed how much that date meant to the Boer people. It turned a day of victory into a day of sorrow.
After the Wars
After the Second Boer War ended in 1902, the British won. The South African Republic became the Transvaal Colony. It was now under British control. Because of this, Majuba Day was no longer a national holiday. It was replaced by Victoria Day on May 24. Victoria Day celebrated the birthday of Queen Victoria of Britain.
Who Still Celebrates Majuba Day?
Even though it's not a national holiday anymore, some Afrikaners still celebrate Majuba Day. Afrikaners are people in South Africa whose ancestors were Dutch settlers. For example, people in the town of Orania still mark this day. They remember its historical importance to their heritage.
