Boer War

They had no idea what they were in for. On October 30, 1899, 125 years ago, a thousand volunteers with the Royal Canadian Regiment travelled to South Africa by ship to join Imperial British forces engaged in the South African War (Boer War). It was the first time Canada had sent soldiers to a major foreign conflict. The volunteers expected a quick and glorious victory, but instead became mired in guerrilla fighting against white South African farmers (Boers), the descendants of Dutch settlers who lived in two republics adjacent to British colonies. The British fought the war to gain control of the South African Republic and its rich gold mines.

28,000

Number of Boer civilians, mostly women and children, who died in internment camps.

9

Major battles fought by Canadian soldiers.

7,368

Number of Canadian soldiers who served in South Africa.

476

Canadian casualties, including 89 killed in action, 135 who died of disease, and 252 wounded.

3

Duration of the war, in years.