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Boer War

Updated: March 6, 2024
These photos influenced views of the Boer War (1899-1902).

The Boer War was caused by tensions between the British Empire and the two Boer states in southern Africa over control of the region's gold and diamond resources, as well as political power.

It had significant impacts on both Britain and South Africa. For Britain, it exposed weaknesses in military and political systems and caused a growing divide between social classes. In South Africa, the war resulted in deaths, displacement, and led to the eventual formation of the Union of South Africa, but also laid the foundation for apartheid policies in the 20th century. It also inspired literary works and influenced perceptions of British imperialism and South African nationalism.


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