The Zulu Wars

Their name means “People of the Heavens.” The descendants of a man by the last name of Zulu formed the clan about 165 years ago. Those from several different clans in eastern coastal parts of South Africa comprised the rest of the group. In 1816 Shaka Zulu became the ruler of the clan, a brilliant warrior who led them in the conquest of many neighboring tribes, gaining power over the defeated people and their land.

White European settlers had been in Southern Africa for about 330 years, since 1488. They set up chartered companies to conduct trade in the East Indies, and among various goods, they also imported more Dutch and German settlers, French Protestant refugees, and enslaved Africans. In 1820 alone about 5000 British settlers arrived.

The British wished to control the Boer republics (where mostly Dutch white settlers had been established in South Africa) and tried to take control over the Zulus by upholding false Boer land claims against them. When the Zulus refused to submit to British rule, the British attacked in January of 1879, the Zulus were fiercely opposing. They fought an unparalleled resistance, despite the fact that the British guns and horses seemed so superior to the Zulus’ spears and tactics. As Benjamin Disraeli said, "A remarkable people the Zulu. They defeat our generals, convert our bishops, and put an end to a great European dynasty."