The Anglo-Boer War (also the South African War, 1899–1902) was one of the most devastating conflicts in South African history, with dire consequences for both combatants and civilians. The British scorched earth policy, implemented to weaken Boer resistance, led to the destruction of thousands of farms, leaving women and children destitute and dependent on British-run concentration camps.
BOOK REVIEWS
‘Geomotional’ is a remarkable and beautifully illustrated exploration of – as the sub-title says – ‘Geometric art, past and present’. The book, which has us journey through images, words, poetry and song, and gives account of a ‘performance-installation’, is compiled by Mary Elizabeth Lange, who is prolific in her writings on Indigenous art and story, and various intersections with heritage.
BLUE PLAQUES
On 11 July 1900 a British column under General Horace Smith-Dorrien left Krugersdorp to assist the beleaguered town of Rustenburg. On this spot they were ambushed by the Krugersdorp Commando led by General Sarel Oosthuizen. Two guns of the Royal Field Artillery advanced to within rifle range of the Boers who held the surrounding ridge. Within minutes most British gunners and their horses were killed or wounded.