My AZW Book Library

The Zulu War 1879

The Zulu War of 1879 remains one of the best known British colonial wars and included two battles whose names reverberate through history. At Isandlwana the Zulus inflicted a crushing defeat on the British. The gallant British defence at Rorke’s Drift followed and re-established British prestige. Yet as this book shows, there was more to the war than this.

Six months of brutal fighting followed, until the Zulu kingdom was broken up. Its king imprisoned and the whole structure of the Zulu state destroyed. Years of internecine strife followed, until the British finally annexed Zululand as a colonial possession.

Isandlwana 1879 The great Zulu victory

The battle of Isandlwana fought on 22 January 1879 was the greatest defeat suffered by the British Army during the Victorian era. A Zulu army of 24,000 warriors had moved undetected to within striking distance of the British camp in the shadow of Isandlwana Mountain. From the start the 1,700 defenders underestimated the danger descending upon them. They were swept aside with horrifying speed and the final stage of the battle consisted of desperate hand-to-hand fighting amid the British camp. Over 1,300 men were killed; scarcely 60 Europeans survived.

Ian Knight employs new archaeological and historical research to provide a completely new interpretation of the course of the battle.

Rorke’s Drift 1879 ‘Pinned like rats in a hole’

Rorke’s Drift sums up some of the best traditions of the British self-image. Steadfastness against the odds. Victory in adversity and the thin red line. The British stand deserves to go down in history as one of the most heroic actions of all time. The story of a mere 150 British and Imperial soldiers defending an isolated outpost against over 3,000 Zulu warriors summed up the experience of the colonial adventure for the Victorians and remains part of our heritage even today.

Ian Knight recounts the course of this famous conflict in which no less than 11 Victoria crosses were won.

Zulu War 1879 Twilight of a warrior nation

In the late 1870s the British Imperial administration in the Cape colony in southern Africa. Began to view the Zulu kingdom as a challenge to its authority. To contain this perceived threat, the British engineered a war. The early campaigns went terribly wrong. With the decisive Zulu victory at Isandlwana. Ultimately however, the British won the war.

The Zulus, primarily reliant on their skill with the stabbing spear, had no real defence or retaliation against the massed firepower of professional British soldiers. Ian Castle examines the British-Zulu war and its two key battles, Isandlwana and Khambula. With excellent black and white photographs accompanying the clear and detailed text.

British Infantryman vs Zulu Warrior

The short but brutal Anglo-Zulu War of 1879 pitched well-equipped but complacent British soldiers into combat with the Zulu. One of history’s finest fighting forces. The clashes between these two different armies prompted tactical innovation on both sides. As the British and their Zulu opponents sought to find the optimal combination of mobility, protection and firepower. This engrossing study traces the changing face of infantry combat in the Anglo-Zulu War.

Three major engagements are detailed. The Zulu ambush at Nyezane, repulsed by the British using their established tactics. The shocking defeat and massacre of outmanoeuvred British forces in dreadful close-quarter fighting at iSandlwana. And the British victory at Khambula following their adoption of more condensed firing lines and prepared positions.

The Zulus by Ian Knight

A very remarkable people, the Zulu’, the British Prime Minister, Benjamin Disraeli, said on hearing of a fresh disaster in the war of 1879. They defeat our generals; they convert our bishops; they have settled the fate of a great European dynasty. Remarkable indeed, to have taken on the full might of the British Empire at its height, and won. If not the war, at least some of the battles.

This book explains who the Zulus were, and how they achieved the fame as warriors which they enjoy to this day.

British Forces in Zululand

On 4 March, 1878 at King William’s Town, British Kaffraria, Gen. Sir Arthur Cunnynghame handed over supreme command of the British forces in southern Africa to his successor, Lt. Gen. Sir Frederic Thesiger. The High Commissioner, Sir Henry Bartle Frere, was convinced that one solution to the complex problems which beset the region was to overthrow the last powerful independent black kingdom bordering British possessions. The Zulu kingdom of King Cetshwayo KaMapande. However Cetshwayo had remained on the political defensive.

This book describes the uniforms and equipment of the forces that Thesiger led across the border to wage war in Zululand.

British Fortifications in Zululand 1879

On 11 January 1879 the British Empire went to war with the independent kingdom of Zululand. The British anticipated a swift and decisive victory, placing great faith in modern firepower. No plans were made for suppressing the Zulu over a protracted period. Or for providing defensive positions from which to occupy Zulu territory.

However, the losses suffered at Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift quickly altered the British approach. Throughout the rest of the war, the British fortified almost every position they occupied in Zululand. From permanent column depots to temporary halts. This title explores British defensive techniques employed during the war. And how these related to contemporary engineering theory. Among the sites covered are Eshowe Mission Station, forts Pearson and Tenedos, and Rorke’s Drift.

Zulu War: Volunteers, Irregulars & Auxiliaries

Mention of the Zulu War of 1879 inevitably conjures up images of the redcoats at Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. It is often forgotten that the limited number of Imperial troops available led to the raising of several thousand local troops from Natal, Cape Colony and beyond. Typified by hard-riding white frontiersmen and lightly armed African infantry. These units made up for the British Army’s severe shortage of cavalry scouts and local knowledge.

Ian Castle’s concise study of their organisation, uniforms, weapons, and campaign service covers a far wider range of units than ever previously published. It is illustrated with rare photographs and vivid colour plates.

The Zulu War by Angus Mcbride

By the end of the nineteenth century the fame of the Zulu was world-wide. And their army was one of the few non-European military organisations to have become the subject of serious historical study. Their very name is still synonymous with bravery, discipline and military skill.

This excellent addition to Osprey’s Men-at-Arms series tells the story of the Zulu’s at war. From their rise to unrivalled power under the fearsome Shaka to the final devastating defeat against the British at Ulundi. Detailing Zulu weapons and tactics, and the famous battles in which they fought.

British Infantryman in South Africa 1877–81

For many people the epitome of the British soldier of the late Victorian period is the Redcoat who fought in southern Africa in the 1870s. This title covers the key period of the wars against the Zulu and Boers. The dramatic battles of Rorke’s Drift, Isandlwana, Ulundi, Laing’s Nek and Majuba are some of the most famous engagements in the history of the British Army. The journey of the British soldier from the back streets of Britain’s inner cities. To the isolated rock outcrop of Isandlwana and the mountain top of Majuba is one of discipline, devotion, loyalty, bravery, determination and sheer hard-work. It is a journey from which many men never returned.

Who’s Who in the Zulu War 1879, Vol. 1: by Adrian Greaves Ian Knight

The Anglo Zulu War continues to attract phenomenal interest. What was meant to be a quick punitive expedition led by Lord Chelmsford turned into a watershed for British Colonial power. The ignominious defeat at Isandlwana was a terrible blow to British military pride but the heroic stand at Rorke’s Drift. While a minor event by comparison, allowed the powers-that-be to salvage some honour.

This authoritative book covers all the main players, be they military, political or civilian. With concise yet readable individual entries. In addition to the military commanders on both sides, we have the VC winners, those at Rorke’s Drift and survivors of the massacre. Individuals such as The Crown Prince Imperial whose actions made an impact all have entries.

Who’s Who in the Zulu War 1879, Vol. 2: Adrian Greaves Ian Knight

The Anglo-Zulu War of 1879 has a character that inspires and fascinates readers and increasing numbers of visitors to South Africa. The two volume biographical dictionary of the participants is a unique venture and this second volume reveals much about the formidable Zulu nation which so nearly humbled the mighty British Empire which had provoked the conflict.

Thanks to the deep knowledge and research abilities of the two authors this fascinating book provides detail on both the leaders of the Zulu armies, which totalled some 40,000 warriors.

We learn of the terrible price paid by this proud nation not just from the defeat by the British but in the civil war of 1883 brought about as a result of the internal tensions unleashed by the Zulu War. The role of the Colonials, be they British settlers, Boer or non-Zulu Africans is also examined through highly informative entries on the main personalities.

Zulu: Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift, 22-23 January 1879 by Ian Knight

This is an account of one of the most dramatic episodes in 19th century military history, which continues to exert a unique fascination. On 22nd January 1879 the British military camp at Isandlwana, South Africa, was annihilated by about 20,000 Zulu warriors.

Some 1200 troops died under the Zulu spears, half of them British regular infantry of the 24th Foot armed with modern breech-loading rifles. This battle was partly redeemed that evening at the tiny hospital and supply post of Rorke’s Drift, successfully held in hand-to-hand fighting against thousands of Zulus by some 140 defenders, only 80 of them able bodied redcoats.

This book provides details of the fighting men of both armies and of their bloody meeting, drawing upon the author’s local research, several examinations of the battlefield and aerial photographs.

Nothing Remains But to Fight: Defence of Rorke’s Drift, 1879

Ian Knight’s book remains one of the most detailed and well-researched accounts of the Rorke’s Drift battle from the Anglo-Zulu War. While visually resembling a picture book with its illustrations, it offers a profound analysis based on firsthand accounts. Knight explores myths versus realities, Zulu and British perspectives, and the battle’s lasting cultural impact. He highlights British praise and contrasting Zulu reactions, touching upon propaganda-driven awards.

The author’s dedication to historical accuracy and unique angles like Zulu challenges set this book apart. Its illustrations further enrich readers’ understanding, making it essential reading for those interested in this historic clash.

Rorke’s Drift by Adrian Greaves

The Battle of Rorke’s Drift (22nd January 1879), following the devastating British defeat at Isandlwana, saw 85 British troops fend off six Zulu attacks overnight, with 11 Victoria Crosses awarded for bravery. While celebrated as a British military epic, Adrian Greaves’ research challenges its legendary status, uncovering cases of cowardice and suggesting the narrative served as propaganda to mask British failures at Isandlwana.

Despite its undeniable acts of heroism, the battle’s portrayal is increasingly questioned. Greaves highlights the need to reassess Rorke’s Drift within its broader historical context, balancing the myth with the reality of its events.

The Zulu War: A Pictorial History

Michael Barthorp’s The Zulu War: A Pictorial History explores the 1879 conflict, renowned for events like Isandlwana, Rorke’s Drift, and the death of the Prince Imperial. This Victorian-era campaign’s drama and heroism captivate enthusiasts even a century later. Barthorp’s detailed study pairs over 150 rare illustrations with insights into the war’s causes, strategies, and the fierce Zulu resistance armed only with spears and shields.

Highlighting British missteps and Zulu courage, the book captures the era’s vivid reality. Through meticulous research, Barthorp presents the war from both sides, offering an invaluable resource for military and colonial history aficionados.

Uniforms and Weapons of the Zulu Wars

Christopher Wilkinson Latham’s Uniforms and Weapons of the Zulu Wars delves into the dramatic Anglo-Zulu War of 1879, marked by the tragedy at Isandlwana and the heroics at Rorke’s Drift. The book meticulously examines British Army and Colonial uniforms, alongside nostalgic forces like Baker’s Horse and Dunn’s Scouts.

It uniquely catalogs all 34 Zulu regiments’ uniforms, offering insights into their structure, training, tactics, and strategic thinking. Enriched with 64 rare illustrations and four color plates, the book provides a vivid visual and historical account, making it essential for understanding the war’s uniforms, weaponry, and the remarkable combatants on both sides.

The Illustrated Guide to the Anglo-Zulu War

The Illustrated Guide to the Anglo-Zulu War is an expanded revision of the 1979 Field Guide, incorporating new research, maps, and illustrations to reflect advancements in Anglo-Zulu War studies. Authors John Laband and Paul Thompson explore evolving battlefield interpretations, adding minor engagements and presenting terrain as it appeared in 1879.

The book uniquely catalogues fortifications and Zulu names, following specific conventions. Contributions from cartographers, editors, and historians enrich the quality, offering detailed maps and new insights. With updated sources and debates on key battles like Isandlwana and Hlobane, it is an invaluable resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike.