- KwaZulu-Natal
- Slagvelde Gebied
- Vroeë Zoeloe Oorloë
Vroeë Zoeloe Oorloë, Slagvelde Gebied, KwaZulu-Natal
- Inligting
- Aantreklikhede (1)
Early in the 19th century King Shaka transformed a tiny tribe into a proud and powerful nation. This nation building involved a continuing series of skirmishes and battles, and by the mid-1820s the Zulus had emerged as the most powerful and influential nation in southern Africa.
The legend of Shaka still inspires pride among the Zulu people.
During a twelve-year reign he built up and led a powerful army, while setting new standards and cultural traditions for his people.
Historians acknowledge his military leadership and his prowess at developing new weapons (significantly the short stabbing spear) and battlefield strategy (particularly izimpondo zenkomo, the horns-of-the-bull encircling tactic).
Despite understandably subjective Victorian criticism, contemporary accounts from shipwrecked sailors in the 18th century describe the Zulus with whom they came into contact as cheerful, prosperous and law-abiding people.
Important Information
Very few battlefield sites have any form of interpretative information, some are on private property and therefore require permission to visit and some are very difficult to find. Therefore the use of a Guide is highly recommended.