Britain's war against the Zulu in South Africa at the end of the 19th century is one of the most famous conflicts in the history of the British Empire, but the previous wars against the Xhosa are less known. Although Lord Chelmsford's role in the Anglo-Zulu War has been extensively analyzed, his early experiences against the Xhosa have rarely been examined with the same intensity. That is why Stephen Manning's study of these colonial campaigns and Chelmsford's role is so timely and valuable.

Chelmsford's military career and Britain's problematic relationship with the Xhosa came into conflict in 1878 with the conclusion of the 9th Frontier War, in which Chelmsford commanded the victorious British forces. This conflict is vividly described here. Perhaps Chelmsford learned the wrong lessons from his struggle with the Xhosa, as his initial management of British forces during the Anglo-Zulu War led to disaster at the Battle of Isandlwana. Although Chelmsford regained the initiative and his forces defeated the Zulu at Gingindlovu and Ulundi, his reputation was never restored.

Stephen Manning's narrative of Chelmsford's campaigns in South Africa provides us with a fascinating insight into the military and political history of South Africa during this period and offers a fresh perspective on Chelmsford himself - as a man of his time and as a military commander.

Pages: 240, Dimensions: 15.6x15.6cm