The South African War was a conflict between the British Empire and Dutch settlers, known as the Boers. It was fought in southern Africa from 1899 to 1902 and is also known as the Boer War. More than 7,000 Canadians volunteered for service alongside the British forces there. Our soldiers served with great distinction. Five of them earned the Victoria Cross for their impressive bravery.
South African War battles
ORDER OF EVENTS
11 October 1899
War breaks out between the Boer settlers and the British Empire
30 October 1899
The first contingent of Canadian soldiers set sail for southern Africa.
February 1900
Canadians contribute to a major victory in the Battle of Paardeberg
7 November 1900
Canadians fight in the Battle of Leliefontein
3 March 1902
Canadians fight in the Battle of Hart's River
31 May 1902
Treaty of Vereeniging is signed, ending the war in a British victory
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