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The Dutch in the Anglo-Boer War: A Forgotten History

Hayden Mitchell

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Published in Brothers In Arms: Hollanders In The Anglo Boer War

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The Anglo-Boer War, fought from 1899 to 1902, was a conflict between the British Empire and the Boer republics of the Orange Free State and the Transvaal. The war is often remembered as a struggle between the British and the Afrikaners, but the Dutch also played a significant role in the conflict.

Brothers in Arms: Hollanders in the Anglo-Boer War

by Chris Schoeman

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
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The Dutch had a long history in South Africa. They first arrived in the Cape Colony in the 17th century, and over time they became a major part of the population. By the time of the Anglo-Boer War, there were an estimated 100,000 Dutch-speakers living in South Africa.

When the war broke out, many Dutch-speakers were torn between their loyalty to the British Empire and their sympathy for the Boers. Some Dutch-speakers chose to fight for the British, while others joined the Boer forces. In total, an estimated 10,000 Dutch-speakers fought in the war, on both sides.

Those who fought for the British were often motivated by a sense of loyalty to the Empire. They believed that the British were fighting for a just cause, and they wanted to help defend the British Empire. Others were motivated by a desire for adventure or a chance to prove themselves in battle.

Those who fought for the Boers were often motivated by a sense of nationalism. They believed that the Boers were fighting for their independence and their right to self-determination. Others were motivated by a desire to protect their homes and families from the British invaders.

The Dutch played a significant role in the Anglo-Boer War. They fought on both sides of the conflict, and they made a significant contribution to the war effort. Their involvement is a reminder of the complex and often forgotten history of the Anglo-Boer War.

Notable Dutch Figures in the Anglo-Boer War

Several notable Dutch figures played a role in the Anglo-Boer War. These include:

Louis Botha: Botha was a Boer general who later became the first prime minister of the Union of South Africa. He was a skilled military leader and a respected diplomat.
Jan Smuts: Smuts was a Boer general who later became a prominent South African politician. He was a brilliant strategist and a gifted orator.
Piet Cronjé: Cronjé was a Boer general who was captured by the British at the Battle of Paardeberg. He was a respected military leader and a symbol of Boer resistance.
Paul Kruger: Kruger was the president of the Transvaal Republic. He was a staunch advocate for Boer independence and a key figure in the Anglo-Boer War.

The Impact of the Anglo-Boer War on the Dutch

The Anglo-Boer War had a significant impact on the Dutch in South Africa. The war led to the deaths of thousands of Dutch-speakers, and it also caused widespread destruction of property. The war also led to a decline in the status of the Dutch language in South Africa.

Despite the challenges they faced, the Dutch in South Africa continued to play an important role in the country's development. They helped to build the Union of South Africa, and they contributed to the country's economic, social, and cultural life.

Brothers in Arms: Hollanders in the Anglo-Boer War

by Chris Schoeman

4 out of 5