The Great Boer War facts for kids

Title page from The Great Boer War

The Great Boer War is a non-fiction book written by Arthur Conan Doyle. It tells the story of the Second Boer War, which happened in South Africa. The book was first published in 1900 by Smith, Elder & Co. By the time the war ended in 1902, the book had been updated and published 16 times. Doyle kept revising it to include the latest information.

The book gives a very detailed account of the war. It even includes lists of people who were killed or wounded up until September 8th, when Doyle left South Africa. He tried to make the book as accurate as possible. He also spoke with many Boers to understand their views on the war and politics. Sometimes, he only had information from injured soldiers he was caring for. Because of this, some small mistakes might have happened. The very end of the war is covered in less detail than the earlier parts. The book was finished in September 1900. At that time, the British thought the war was over, but it actually continued until 1902.

Who Was Arthur Conan Doyle?

Arthur Conan Doyle was a famous British writer. He is best known for creating the detective character Sherlock Holmes. However, he also wrote many other books, including historical novels and non-fiction works like The Great Boer War. Doyle was a doctor by profession. During the Second Boer War, he worked as a volunteer doctor in a field hospital in South Africa. This experience gave him a unique perspective on the conflict.

What Was the Second Boer War?

The Second Boer War (1899–1902) was a major conflict in South Africa. It was fought between the British Empire and two independent Boer states: the South African Republic (Transvaal) and the Orange Free State. The Boers were descendants of Dutch settlers. The war was mainly about control over land and valuable resources, especially gold and diamonds. It was a very tough war with many battles and sieges.

What Does the Book Cover?

The Great Boer War covers the entire conflict from its beginnings to its end. It explains why the war started and how the negotiations happened before fighting broke out. Doyle describes many important battles and events, such as:

• The early battles like Talana Hill and Elandslaagte.
• The long Siege of Ladysmith, where British forces were surrounded.
• Major battles like Battle of Magersfontein, Battle of Stormberg, and Battle of Colenso, which were difficult for the British.
• The famous Battle of Spion Kop.
• The relief of besieged towns like Kimberley and Mafeking.
• The advance of British forces under commanders like Lord Roberts.
• The shift to Guerilla Warfare by the Boers in the later stages of the war.
• The final campaigns leading to the end of the conflict.

The book gives readers a clear picture of the war's timeline and key moments. It helps to understand the challenges faced by both sides.

Why Was This Book Important?

The Great Boer War was important because it was one of the first detailed accounts of the war. It was written by someone who was actually there. Doyle wanted to provide a fair and accurate history of the conflict. He tried to understand the views of both the British and the Boers. The book helped people in Britain and around the world understand what was happening in South Africa. It showed the bravery and difficulties faced by soldiers on both sides.