THE BATTLE OF SPIOENKOP: PERSONALITIES AND OUTCOMES
Nicki von der Heyde, writer, freelance journalist
Saturday 24 January 10.00 am COURSE FEES R115; Staff and students R58
The Battle of Spioenkop was the seminal Boer War battle where, at one stage, both armies retreated, believing the other side had won. Was it a brilliant Boer victory or an abysmal British defeat?
The course of the battle was shaped by leadership styles, personality clashes and complicated terrain. The outcome was decided by skilful use of long-ranging artillery. This lecture will discuss the battle and the contrast between the two armies. There is a focus on the British generals of Natal: General Sir Redvers Buller, his army history, his character and his foibles; General Sir Charles Warren’s unwelcome arrival; and the controversial role played by Lord Donald Cochrane, the 12th Earl of Dundonald. It will also examine the roles played by Gandhi and Churchill.
Recommended reading
Coetzer, O. 1966. The Road to Infamy. Rivonia: Waterman Publications.
Griffith, K. 1974. Thank God We Kept the Flag Flying. London: Hutchinson and Co. Kruger, R. 1967. Good-bye Dolly Gray. London: Pan Books.
TO BOOK: https://www.webtickets.co.za/performance.aspx?itemid=1575365784