British Fortifications in Zululand 1879

Description

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.

Ian Knight is widely regarded as a leading international expert on the Anglo-Zulu War. He has written, co-written or edited over 30 books. He studied Afro-Caribbean Studies at Kent University, and is an Honorary Research Associate of the Natal Museum and Vice President of the Anglo Zulu War Historical Society. In 2000, he was the Historian advising the Glasgow University team who made the first archaeological survey of the Isandlwana battlefield. He lives in Sussex, UK. Adam Hook studied graphic design and began his work as an illustrator in 1983. He specializes in detailed historical reconstructions and has illustrated Osprey titles on the Aztecs, the Greeks, the American Civil War and the American Revolution. His work features in exhibitions and publications throughout the world. He lives in Sussex, UK.