South African War

One of many names given to the war between the forces of the British Empire and the two independent Boer Republics (the South African Republic (Transvaal Republic) and the Orange Free State). The conflict took place between 11 October 1899 until 31 May 1902.

Referred to as South African War in many British publications and others outside South Africa, and as the Anglo-Boer War among most South Africans (Afrikaans: the Anglo-Boereoorlog). However it is also commonly referred to simply as the The Boer War (Die Boere-oorlog in Afrikaans). Actually of course it was the Second South African War (the first took place between 16 December 1880 and 23 March 1881) and is often referred to as such - e.g. in Dutch: Tweede Boerenoorlog, in Afrikaans:Tweede Vryheidsoorlog or Tweede Boere Oorlog. Some people refer to it as Die Engelse oorlog ("The English War").

The protracted war had a great impact on the future of warfare worldwide, was a traumatic experience for many Britons, but most importantly for this publication has been its deep and long-term impact on the psyche of the South African nation. This was true of all the citizens (of all races, creeds and convictions) in the country at the time and thereafter. However, it was particularly so for those called the "Afrikaners".

As a result of its socio-political, economic and cultural impact, the war ultimately also had a huge influence on the artistic output of the South African writers, dramatists, musicians, visual artists etc. in the 20th century.