The Battle of Isandlwana: From above

[@Why_So_Serious_279]

I especially respect the effort you put into pronouncing the names and Zulu regiments correctly. That was extremely well done and added a poignant touch. Thank you!

[@eroero830]

How do you know that it is correct? I mean it probably is... but that was my first fear.

[@Dackah]

if you want the correct pronunciation, listen to the late David Rattray' "Day Of The Dean Moon"

[@hectord2032]

I am Zulu, just want to salute the two sides, to all the man that lost their lives, may your souls rest in peace. We are purposefully one now.

[@TheBraaiKitchen]

I can’t imagine how scary it must have been for both sides to face each other, I salute them too. Brave men.

[@hermanleeuwner5295]

@Coll Maxwell Coll Maxwell They fight like real men under command off fools. True commanders fight to win not to look manly or heroic. Real commanders use wagon lagers and terrain to equalize the playing field with estimated 15 000 Zulus against approximately 340 Boors. Go and get educated about the battle at Blood river before making snide remarks joining the ranks off FOOLS:

[@ktheterkuceder6825]

@@hermanleeuwner5295 Cough "Holkrans,Dimawe,Italeni,Sekhukhune wars,Senekal war" cough.

[@ktheterkuceder6825]

@@hermanleeuwner5295 Also spaniards had a similar battle against incas and mapuches who like zulus had neither firepower nor cavalry.

[@danhall6922]

If there are any positives of the Zulu war (And i can think of just this one) Its the fact that the Zulu fought so hard and so well that ignorant and racist attitudes were challenged arguably for the first time The British soldiers soon found they had to respect their enemy I also feel this respect was also given back based on some of the accounts of the Zulu from the battle

[@rmr3403]

Very nice, thanks. As a South African I have visited this battleground, its well worth it. Along with Spion Kop, and Magersfontein, the 3 really must visits in SA battlefields. Interestingly all British defeats.

[@Ban0909]

Well done on the pronunciations to correct terminology. I'm from SA and your wording is excellent. That battle always fascinated me growing up and learning it in my history class. I have utmost respect for all who fought there. The Zulu nation was amazing with their fighting and spirit.

[@GravesRWFiA]

I'll second that. bantu names have always eluded me but5 you were very good.

[@mikelewis1436]

One story that's always intrigued me is that of the last remaining redcoat (possibly one of Younghusband's men) who retreated up a spur of the mountain, found a small cave and proceeded to hold out single-handedly until eventually felled by a lucky shot from below (had it been me I would simply have gotten my head down and tried to lie low) - some years ago when the Royal Welsh attended an anniversary memorial out there a friend of ours climbed up the mountain in search of the cave and reckons he did indeed find the spot where the last of the 24th fell....

[@daveglynn748]

You have just answered a question i asked minutes ago. Thank you.

[@redcoathistory]

Hi mate - there are many versions of the story but you are right - there is a cave which I've also climbed up to before...Worth exploring if you ever come back

[@mikelewis1436]

@@redcoathistory Cheers - no, never made it out there it was a soldier mate of ours who climbed up there - no doubt you've seen the famous painting The Last Of The 24th at Isandhlwana? Congrats on a great video, btw...

[@daveglynn748]

@@redcoathistory Sounds like a worthwile basis for a video. The lone soldier up in that cave was surely the last brit soldier to survive and I've always wondered why more "fugitives" didn't retreat up there.

[@j3v167]

The last time I was there, they had posted signs up forbidding people from climbing up the mountain. We were not even allowed to go up the gentle slope before it goes up steeply..

[@ayissiyabonga9208]

If you've never been to Isandlwana and actually hiked up the Mountain you're totally missing out. It's Breathtaking and beautiful. I recommend everyone should visit it once in their life time

[@chrisperrien7055]

It sounds nice. But I might , by accident, summon The Dead at such places. Or they just show up. Luckily , I can no longer hike around to such historic areas.😎

[@Maixo]

Very good presentation 👍👍👍 I was at Isandlwhana and actually stayed at a backpackers - Inyezane - on another Anglo Zulu battlefield at Gingindhlovu. My first impression was why it took them so long to discover the small matter of 20,000 zulus in the area. A dog with a mallet up it's arse would have scouted the Nyoni heights asap

[@johnfellows2867]

Visited here in 2016. It was a beautiful, hot day, but there was no wind, no bird sound, totally silent. I just sat and let my mind run riot, thinking of what it must have been like on that awful day. Also went to Rorkes Drift, another sobering experience.

[@guitardee1]

Thank you so much for this overview. I live in South Africa and some years ago took my British friends to see the battlefield at Isandlwana. It is eerie to stand among the white cairns which are repainted and cared for by the local history society in Dundee. Sadly very few modern Zulus know this history and upon enquiry what they learn at school I was told they mostly do ANC history. When you stand there the overwhelming feeling is one of admiration for the bravery of the troops on both sides. I found it moving.

[@redcoathistory]

Thanks, Denise.

[@jeromedavid7944]

Their's were not to reason why. Their's were but to do or die!

[@simsnyandeni3828]

Hebe! Usuthu!. I must say I’m impressed with the commentators Zulu pronunciation. The clicks are spot on

[@redcoathistory]

Siyabonga mfwethu!

[@gap9992]

Excellent Christian - another great Zulu Wars video! A very clear overview of Isandlwana. I have become very interested in the battles and intend to take a tour as part of a holiday as soon as things have settled down again.

[@redcoathistory]

That's great thanks so much. I am now qualified as a tour guide and by 2023 hope to be running regular tours so maybe we can meet!

[@lyndoncmp5751]

Redcoat. Oh really. That's great. I would love to do one of your tours.

[@redcoathistory]

@@lyndoncmp5751 Cheers mate. You could be a guest speaker! If you are keen then maybe you could register for the newsletter over at redcoathistory.com (you'll also get a free book for your trouble!)...I'm still learning and practising on friends and other guides but I'm hoping to run a few tours in 2023 and kick off the business.

[@AJM-timecop]

Great stuff, as always. As well as the opposing armies, the terrain was definitely a major factor in that day's events.

[@glenchapman3899]

Yep was my exact first thought when I saw how the battle was unfolding. Always know your ground

[@lyndoncmp5751]

I think the terrain would actually have benefited the defence if the firing line was pulled in much closer, and with attention also paid the rear at the 'saddle' area.

[@MaxwellBenson80]

It's remarkable to see the actual location of this great battle! Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us!

[@brianreed5839]

I really enjoyed hearing the African names pronounced properly.

[@craiglewis8981]

Always been interested in the Zulu wars . Especially Rorkes Drift. One of the Defenders was from my town. And is buried here. Private John Williams VC .

[@EtonieE25]

Just wanted to add that your correct pronunciation @ 7mins of the Zulu regiments using your tongue was spot on 👍

[@schweinhund7966]

Excellent video! As an amateur military historian I visited Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift in August 1985. A little ol’ Black woman brought her visitor log to me and had me sign it. Only a Canadian and I (a “Yank”) visited the entire day. I am now a subscriber.

[@richardmacpherson7647]

Awsome. Thank you for your time putting this together

[@redcoathistory]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@richardmacpherson7647]

@@redcoathistory mind if I share it about to a historical table top Wargaming Facebook group I'm part of?

[@vegasrick6556]

Well done, a compliment to the Zulu's who were no rag tag opponent. They had strategy and leaders with a plan that was bravely carried out. British leaders, underestimating their enemies, much like Custer in the U.S., paid dearly with the lives of their brave soldiers.

[@redcoathistory]

Thanks, Rick. You are spot on.

[@patrickcooper7629]

No, the Zulu commanders failed in restraining their army from attacking. Their religion stictly forbid it, attacking on Jan 22nd was analogous to a Christian offensive bloodbath on Christmas, which shows you how important religion is when human survival comes first. THC, psychedelics, and the collective intelligence of the Zulu to form into the horns upon discovery is admirable more than anything the old Zulu commander controlled directly.

[@morriganmhor5078]

@@patrickcooper7629 Don´t ride so high. Flank assaults were used without THC, psychedelics, and the collective intelligence of anybody from the dawn of warfare.

[@patrickcooper7629]

@@morriganmhor5078 I can't think of such a military victory where the senior commanders tried or allegedly tried to call off the attack.

[@jeffsmith2022]

You are trying to compare apples to oranges, not fair...

[@kiwifruit27]

This was brilliant, congrats on putting it all together

[@swampyankee]

Nice job Chris. Really helped me visualize the movement of both armies.

[@pavlothekozak827]

Thank you Christian. Great video. So many documentaries and videos only show maps and ground level topography. Thanks again.

[@johnny_pilot]

Great video again, Christian! I love everything you're producing on the Anglo-Zulu war. 😃👍

[@JoshuaC923]

The courage to stand and fight when outnumbered like this is inconceivable, also the courage to charge with melee weapons into a firing line. Brave men indeed

[@sakhecele6807]

Wow m so amazed very accurate, detailed 🇿🇦🇿🇦 I hav learnt this history both from European authors and South African authors and heard history from my elders. Well said.. M from the Zulu Tribe my great great grandfathers both maternal and partenal fought on the British side

[@redcoathistory]

Thanks Sakhe - that feedback means a lot - would love to hear more about your great grandfathers one day.

[@wilkowilkinson4864]

Another fantastic video. Thank you for all your time and effort in putting them together Christian.

[@redcoathistory]

Thanks, Wilko - this one was a beast to edit but I enjoyed it.

[@sHr0oMaN]

Thank you for this fantastic video. In any battle the terrain is important yet so few who do these kind of video capture this as well as you have.

[@steven1000000000]

Very good video and overview. This was an epic battle. As an extension to this battle, there was obviously the battle of Rorke's drift where a part of the Zulu force attacked the mission station. It's been discussed that because of the magnitude of this defeat, they handed out 11 VC's at Roukes Drift which was the largest number in any battle. Whilst the Zulu's won this battle, this defeat probably hastened their ultimate defeat because of the British response to this brutal defeat.

[@iskrajackal9049]

Marvellous narrative accent and interesting subject. Thanks for posting

[@redcoathistory]

Many thanks!

[@andrewpaglia1]

It is amazing, what I learned about the Battle of Isandlwana and Lord Chelmsford is how the pride and arrogance of one man caused the loss of many men.

[@garydarrah2686]

22 years ago I stayed at Isandlwana lodge which was fantastic. Back then the landscape was untouched. Seems to be a lot of houses and other buildings encroaching on the site now. Very unfortunate.

[@redcoathistory]

Yes, it is a shame that parts of the battlefield are beiung built on.

[@paulolodicora4471]

Great story, it bring us a different perspective what it is like to conquer a new land. Much obliged for sharing it, greetings from Brazil.

[@briandoyle667]

loved it!! even went to see these battle grounds years ago. Is very hard to imagine fighting a battle in that heat!!

[@julieblundell7421]

Hello Christian, great video mate, I am always fascinated with Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift and I have learnt a lot more about the Zulu War from your videos, keep up the great work I love it, all the best and stay safe, Lee.

[@redcoathistory]

Thanks a lot Lee. Appreciate that.

[@jeffsmith2022]

How does one 'learnt' exactly?...

[@joelroy6196]

An overwhelming but Pyrrhic victory for the Zulu. Thank you for this insight.

[@hindlewalker9330]

Much appreciated , this is a great idea really helps to see how the battle unfolded.

[@JoeyArmstrong2800]

Great video. A clear and concise representation of what went down that day.

[@eliasbutler57]

I really like that this guy took the effort to properly pronounce the Zulu names, it goes the extra mile in respecting the Zulu culture, something that is usually sorely lacking in studies of colonial wars

[@macdansav1546]

Another fantastic post with yet more awesome views of the battlefield. I don't think I'd get such clear views if I actually visited myself. It's such an impressive site, in many respects looking much as it did in 1879. You always give a very balanced and thoughtful account of the events. Thank you.

[@andygeorgeparkinson2515]

Great video , it really brings the action to life and makes it so much more understandable to “ see “ the action on the actual terrain, superb presentation.

[@rpm1796]

A great new perspective, much appreciated.

[@rpwatkins99]

Most huge defeats can be traced back to over-confidence caused by extreme arrogance.

[@Digmen1]

This was great thanks I think we were all taken in by the Zulu Dawn film. The British were deployed along a long front in extended order Not shoulder to shoulder as in the movie And I think the running out of ammo is a bit exagerated, I thin it was more that the zulu horns outflanked the British left and right flank at the same time There was nothing to do. Puleines major mistake was to deploy so far in front of the camp with open flanks.

[@manatarms7652]

Great video 👍 To be fair to Chelmsford and Pulleine, the ground was too rocky to dig in and making a wagon laager would cost an extraordinary amount of time and effort (especially since it was only a temporary supply camp where the wagons were expected to be travelling in and out). Pulleine should have formed a square with Isandlwana being used as a defensive position but that’s only with the power of hindsight. Pulleine was probably reminded of the battle of Nyumaga where his current commander, colonel Glyn, had won a stunning victory against a far larger force of amaXhosa warriors, by extending his infantry into skirmish lines, only a year before (something that would lead Pulleine’s men to be far too overstretched).

[@therealmrfishpaste]

But also, to be fair, the Boers who had spent several decades successfully fighting the Zulus had a pretty clear blueprint for how to do it, a blue print that was entirely ignored.

[@lyndoncmp5751]

therealmrfishpaste Totally different with the Boers. Boer wagons were far smaller and lighter. They could be formed into a tight laager quite quickly. British army wagons were huge heavy things that took dozens of men to manhandle onto position. Also, the camp at Isandlwana was a kilometre in extent. Very very difficult to do. Can't do it as a battle is happening.

[@therealmrfishpaste]

@@lyndoncmp5751 ...I've never heard that. Boer wagons often required 12-20 oxen to pull them...those are not small wagons...also the camp at Isandlawana was only a km across precisely because they didn't laager up...or to put it another way...they didn't take the Boer advice of always forming camp into a defensive position of some sort no matter how short your intended stay would be - because the Boers knew how quickly the Zulu could move across country and how vulnerable you'd be if not in some sort of laager.

[@lyndoncmp5751]

Yes the British Army wagons were very different to the much smaller and lighter Boer wagons. Apples and oranges. Also, the wagons were required to perform shuttle missions, bringing supplies up from Rorkes Drift. The NEXT camp was supposed to be the first fortified camp. Ten miles further east at Isiphezi Hill at the other end of the Isandlwana plain. The camp at Isandlwana was 1km in extent because it had to house nearly 5,000 people. It could not be akin to a usual Boer laager. The Boer laggers numbered in the hundreds of personnel not 5,000 personnel. Remember, there were two battalions of the 24th, there were the NNC, the colonial forces, Royal Artillery plus all the civilians. Then the room needed for horses and the oxen catttle. 5,000 personnel and huge numbers of horses and cattle cannot be put in a small Boer sized laager.

[@TheTigerOC]

The really simple answer is what happened only a few hours later at Rorke's Drift. With an even smaller ratio of defenders/attackers they managed a victory. The very fact they didn't encamp in a defensible position speaks volumes of the arrogance of the command structure and their failure to heed experienced advice. BTW my gr-uncle died there; a trooper in the Natal Carbineers and the youngest member of the colonial force at 16yrs and 28days.

[@JGrowl-er9md]

To hear details of Zulu tactics, their leaders, and regiments is fascinating. So many of these colonial battles are remembered only from the European perspective. Great video. Thanks

[@timkellyD2R]

There are several well researched books about Zulu history, including Isandlwana, but I think the best by far is "Washing of the Spears," by Donald R. Morris.

[@tonymccake3057]

Great video, I was lucky enough to go there 5 years ago.I'd have appreciated it even more if I'd seen this video first! It's a moving place with the cairns and memorials but also a bleak, windswept ruggedness that gives it an eerie quality when you know something of what happened there. There is virtually nowhere to hide so it seems quite extraordinary that the British had no prepared defences but then again they were already certain that Chelmsford was on the trail of the main Zulu force. Throw in a handful of hubris and it's not so surprising. Hopefully visiting the area will be possible again for those who take an interest in this period of history.

[@timkellyD2R]

I was there in 1989, well before KZbin. There was no one else there so we had the entire battlefield to ourselves. Unforgettable.

[@HaveMonkeyWillDance]

Nicely done. The aerial dissection gives a clarity I never had before. I've guided quite a few WW1 tours, and always try to find something up top to hand out or refer to. Otherwise people tend to stand on these great battlefields looking a bit baffled. Can't blame them really; it's hard to imagine a heroic encounter in a car park just outside Ypres (I exaggerate, but it's always VERY hard to get a feeling for something that has endured great change. At least you have a head-start there...that site looks pristine. I'd love to go, and I think this video now becomes required watching for any prospective visitor. Subscribed, baby! All power to you. Ngijabulela ukukwazi!

[@redcoathistory]

Siyabonga Alexander - appreciate your comments. Keep in touch.

[@mrpamcn]

Very good, Chris. I really enjoyed that. It's always good to get a solid understanding of the ground and your approach and the drone footage has certainly accomplished that.

[@redcoathistory]

Thanks, Paul. It's such a big, complicated battlefield that I am glad that this is able to help people to better understand.

[@coldroses5337]

I wanted to say thank you for your time and dedication to history. I have been interested in this period since I was a child. I am a student of my country's origins and birth and visit battlefields and museums when I can. I salute you especially your 9.3 mile hike from Isandlwana to Rorkes drift. Would love to share several pints and talk about history. Cheers mate, from a Yankee in NY USA

[@redcoathistory]

Many thanks - I really appreciate your feedback. Maybe we will meet one day (I have just qualified as a tour guide for KZN in South Afrtica)...

[@ccswede]

Enjoy reading your books. They are filled with first hand accounts. On the first peninsular war volume. Keep up the good work.

[@redcoathistory]

Thanks, Lars! I'm really chuffed that you liked the book.

[@allanmanley6340]

Brilliant explanation. I was in the band that played a part in the movie Zulu Dawn which sparked my interest in this battle (and many others). I have a small collection of "souvenirs" which were found at Isandlwana.

[@floridadave53]

Like the 7th Cavalry three years prior at Little Bighorn the British drastically underestimated their opponents

[@retriever19golden55]

While there are some definite parallels, perhaps particularly between Durnford and Custer, there are some definite differences between the Zulu and the Sioux/Cheyenne. The Zulu had military formations and command structures, the Sioux/Cheyenne fought essentially as individuals. Although they would follow a leader if they respected him, they weren't bound by any structure or discipline. The biggest difference at the Little Big Horn was that absolutely no one, from Sheridan on down, expected the warriors to stand and fight against an organized Army force. Their tactic had always been to break up into family groups and melt away into the wilderness when faced with a battle at a time and place not of their choosing. The Army's experience with them was that the most difficult part of fighting them was *finding them*! Hancock had chased them all over creation a few years before and never caught up to them; his troops managed to kill a grand total of four men, and two of them were friendlies. Crook nearly starved his men to death trying to find them after the Little Big Horn debacle, finally finding one village to attack at Slim Buttes. What Custer ran into was the largest gathering of Native Americans ever seen before or since; agents had underreported the unusually large number of "summer roamers" who had left the reservations because they wanted to continue receiving money for supplies for their peak number of reservation residents. The size of the gathering, the omens and visions promising success from Sitting Bull, the presence of many renowned warriors, combined with the element of "I've had all I can stand and I can't stand no more!" felt by the Natives, together put Custer in the center of the "perfect storm." His tactics, in light of the information he possessed at the time, were sound; he just didn't possess some very important facts about the situation.

[@sidibill]

The usual high quality video Thanks.

[@redcoathistory]

Glad you enjoyed it - thanks, Bill.

[@vassilizaitzev1]

Thank you for sharing the view of the battlefield. This goes well with your podcast on Isandlwana. It's been awhile since I read a book on the battle, the last was Lt. Colonel Mike Snooks, "How Can Man Die Better." Thanks again. Hope you are well, and good luck with your future projects!

[@redcoathistory]

Thanks, Vass.

[@biglaw6278]

This is a superb learning tool. Great work. It confirms many things that one can learn as to the terrain from one’s own study( and terrain / distances are everything here) but it has been done so well . I don’t know that I will ever make it to the battlefield , but meantime this goes a long way to keeping my ambitions up!

[@redcoathistory]

Morning, that's great I'm Glad it was helpful...Maybe you'll get here one day!

[@MTG776]

As an Australian we didn't learn much about the wars in South Africa at School, other than the Australian participation in the Boer War and of course Breaker Morant... This was epic, the cinematography was superb. I felt like I was there... Instant Sub...

[@redcoathistory]

Thanks mate - I'm really glad that you enjoyed it. Off the top of my head I think Lt Anstey who commanded the last stand of the 1/24th down by the Manzinyama stream was born in Australia...

[@sillyoldbastard3280]

@@redcoathistory There were a few Aussies involved in the Zulu wars notably, James Grove White born in Melbourne who had a long military career and was knighted and Rupert La trobe Lonsdale also born in Melbourne

[@leonidaslantz5249]

Awesome explanation of the view on the ground; dankie.

[@briancoleman971]

Simply outstanding. THIS is exactly how video should be used to teach about history. Once you see the scale, the terrain, things make perfect sense on how this disaster befell the British.

[@redcoathistory]

Thanks, Brian.

[@lyndoncmp5751]

The disaster need not have happened had Durnford in particular not made the decisions he did.

[@vangroover1903]

You would think the copyrights would mostly be up by now, but aerial footage of pre-20th century battlefields can be surprisingly hard to find.

[@joepalooka2145]

Great video. The drone footage of the landscape, and the way events unfolded, struck me as very similar to the Battle of the Little Bighorn in Montana. There's many similarities to Custer's Last Stand and The Last Stand of Isandlwana, where the old saying "Never underestimate your enemy" has never had greater impact.

[@anthonytroisi6682]

The Battle of Islandlwana occurred three years after the Battle of Little Bighorn but the British did not learn from Custer's mistake. Both Custer, Chelmsford were afraid that they could not entice the enemy into battle. Each divided his troops. underestimated the indigenous enemy and failed to conduct sufficient scouting.

[@BeastandBird]

Wow, really enjoyed this video. I would really like to hear more about the men who shook hands with each other and charged down the mountain. That takes a certain level of testicular fortitude.

[@redcoathistory]

Yes, Captain Younghusband's company - I guess you reach that stage where you realise there is no way out except death...It must be a sobering moment to say the least.

[@BeastandBird]

@@redcoathistory and an act worthy of researching and turning their life stories into a video on your channel I daresay?

[@BeastandBird]

@@redcoathistory do I feel a 5minute Friday approaching?

[@Michael-0000]

One of the best overviews of the battle that I’ve seen. Thanks!

[@redcoathistory]

Thanks Michael

[@quigglebert]

Saw the title, in my sleep deprived fugue I was like, who the hell had air recon?

[@redcoathistory]

😂👍🏻

[@ChrisJohn289]

Great stuff, good to see it still being remembered ... even spotted myself in the footage from the 125th Re-enactment of the Last Stand :D

[@thomasjamison2050]

My favorite related story to this Zulu War involves Charles (Chinese) Gordon. The Brits in South Africa asked the War Department to send them Gordon to manage their planned war against the Zulu. The war Department wired back to tell then that 'no, you don't Gordon. If we send him, the first thing he will do is get on his horse, ride up into Zulu country on his own and work out a peace deal with the Zulu." So, the War Department sent someone else. However, Gordon heard that a war was brewing, so he got down to South Africa on his own, took a horse and rode out into Zulu country, found the chief and successfully made a peace deal with him. When Gordon got back to South Africa, they had to tell him no one wanted a peace deal because what they really wanted was a war. Gordon left.

[@janettebraam9396]

I've been there also to roukes drift very sooky you can almost hear the battle the cairns go on for kilometers

[@welshwarrior5263]

Exemplary coverage and birds eye view of the battlefield. My apologies for lack of contact and viewing. I work all over the UK. Thanks for sharing.

[@redcoathistory]

Hay you are back! I know this sounds silly but I was genuinely worried that I hadn't heard from you in so long. Good to know that you are ok mate.

[@welshwarrior5263]

@@redcoathistory Sorry mate, I havnt forgot about you. I am a industrial engineer and work all over the country. Off again for six weeks or so on the 24th-25th.

[@andrewjames5738]

excellent work Christian, so well put together and scripted. in every battle ive ever studied - underestimating an enemy comes out as one of the key factors - on things that went wrong....

[@redcoathistory]

Thanks, Andy. Yes, I think it was a major factor and as you say, it often is. Hope you are well and I look forward to catching up soon.

[@kaiserjoe2316]

I've read Donald R. Morris and Ian Knight but I find your presentation very compelling and am glad to find that your works are very well respected in reviews. I look forward to reading your books, sir. Much respect.

[@redcoathistory]

Many thanks. I don’t have their knowledge, my books are more a ‘soldiers view’ of the war.

[@davidnelson7786]

Thank you. The best explanation I’ve seen about this battle. Really appreciate how the use of Zulu and Xhosa language.

[@redcoathistory]

Cheers, David.

[@tryarunm]

I just finished watching the movie with Burt Lancaster, Peter O'Toole and Denham Elliot. Your overview crystallised the battle plot of the movie for me. Yes, Chelmsford's over-confidence and his misplaced belief in his own superiority over his experienced officers is shocking. While his army was probably doomed anyway, better tactics might have helped it last longer and inflict more damage; might have affected the events if not the outcome of the battle of Rorke's Drift. Thank you.

[@kevinrussell1144]

His army was not doomed by the situation, but by their own overconfidence and unwillingness to listen to those (Boers) who had previously faced and overcome similar odds. They laagered their wagons, bunch their rifles and closed ranks. If you can hold a defensible space and have enough ammo (get those boxes OPEN ahead of time) and restrict how many enemies can attack at one time, you can win. After the fact, the British did all this and won. The Zulus were more physically imposing and just as brave as the Imperial troops. This battle is, in some ways, a lot like Little Big Horn. A numerically very inferior force not showing enough respect to their foe and paying for it the ultimate cost.

[@marlothisafari99]

uCetshwayo and uShaka before him were brilliant strategists given the lack of technology they possessed.

[@marlothisafari99]

When your enemy has bigger weapons or the high ground then flank and envelop them.

[@kerryannestevenson6099]

I found that fascinating,loved your presentation- informative and clear.

[@whicker59]

As a historian for 57 years, I'd like to congratulate u on this fine presentation. The useage of aerial and topographical depictions gives the listener the visuals of being there at battle time. I would recommend actually more displays of combatant positions and movements/directions...... it'll greatly enhance the presentation for the audience.

[@redcoathistory]

Many thanks and much appreciated.

[@Jesus_is_Lord_316]

I agree with this. Was the only thing not quite there. Otherwise it’s a fantastic presentation of an intriguing battle.

[@paulnienhaus5359]

Fantastic! Many Thanks Christian.

[@nigelwillson6096]

I recently learned that my great great grand father,( on my father's side, ) Dennis Doyle was with the 45th Regiment of Foot ( also known as the Sherwood Foresters ). The Regiment arrived at the Cape of Good Hope in 1843 ( after serving in Afganistan ). They were sent to Natal, stationed at Pietermaritzburg. The Himeville Museum, refers to him as Major Doyle and was reported to be the first Brittish settler to settle the lower Umzimkhulu River valley. Among other things, his grandson, Archie Willson, my father's father, built the first bridge over the Umzimkhulu River. Apparently, Dennis' son, Philip Doyle ( my great grand mother's brother ) participated and was killed during the battle of Isandlwana. Your video has special significance for me, thank you for sharing it with us. Nigel Willson, Utah, USA.

[@redcoathistory]

A wonderful family story. I will keep my eyes open for future references.

[@zin153]

The best book I've read on this subject is the late David Rattray's The day of the dead moon. And if you listen to the audio version, read by him, it's nothing short of brilliant.

[@redcoathistory]

He is sadly missed.

[@marinamunro2965]

Dave Rattray was the best. I was privileged to be able to hear him on the battlefield bringing the events of that day alive. Subsequently I went to Wales to Brecon to visit the museum of the 24th Foot. I also went to Rattray's place a few years later and walked the path the Fugitives took. I think his son is running tours there now and I think his father would be proud of him.

[@z-eyesstudio1816]

Perfect historical movie. Awesome!

[@Gungho1a]

The problem with laagering the Central Column was it's size, the number of oxen, the number of wagons, and the time it would take to laager and unlaager, which has been estimated to have taken nearly a day each. The boer had it easy, comparatively, with each family having one, or at best two, wagons. Even with laagering, the number of oxen wouldn't fit inside the laager, and they had to have over eight hours per day grazing time to maintain fitness.

[@freelancenerd4804]

Beautiful countryside. Having come from England that must of really been something to see. Very good and informative video! Thanks.

[@DJsDomain_]

The zulus were one of the most fearless warriors known to man. Charging into mysket and cannon fire. Muchc if which was technology many of them had never seen. And they charged into it, almost as if death was of no consequence. As a black american i love my feroucious Zulu bretheren.

[@j3v167]

For as long as I can remember, I had been taught that the name means "little Horse" and from certain angles the mountain does resemble a little horse..

[@alicetickle]

Brilliant video

[@jamesshave6186]

Absolutely brilliant my friend …. So clear and now I understand the battle … thank you . Jamie Hampshire uk

[@williamcarter1993]

this is a great, well detailed channel. Well explained and easy to follow

[@redcoathistory]

Much appreciated! Thanks William.

[@josephfeeley3476]

I absolutely enjoyed this. Finally, a non-biased presentation of the battle. Kind of reminds me of my country's Custard and how his troops were wiped out through arrogance and miscalculation of the Native Nations!!

[@lyndoncmp5751]

I think there is a difference between overconfidence and arrogance though. Plus, some of Chelmsfords decisions were made with caution in mind. He wasn't exactly blasé and nonchalant.

[@brianford8493]

Brilliant stuff!!!!....Ta!

[@leepagnini6273]

Excellent summary of this battle. Unlike so many, you didn't over-tell the story. Great job.

[@michaelmuir4548]

Another great video of yours. Thank you for sharing.

[@redcoathistory]

Thanks for watching!

[@bryanmckinnon8060]

From this story echoes many warriors' sentiments: The warriors respected each other in the end. They all fought bravely. They all believed in their cause. I know that to this day; the 1st and 2nd Regiment meet with their Zulu counterparts to celebrate the battles.

[@redcoathistory]

Literally today - representives of the Royal Welsh Regiment are in South Africa laying wreaths and King-to-be Misizulu will be speaking...the two sides still resepct one another.

[@bryanmckinnon8060]

@@redcoathistory wow, totally unplanned on my part. I just love the stories and the history of it. I started collecting Martini Henry’s, when I got hooked on the lore of Rourke’s drift.

[@saeedvazirian]

The invaders deserve no respect.

[@hannostadler7224]

Have my subscription good sir. Cheers from Richards Bay, Zululand.

[@stevie6205]

Im part of the 3rd Infantry Battalion of the Irish Defence Forces and Lion, the unit mascot of the 24 Regiment of Foot is buried inside of the main gate of our barracks.

[@zen4men]

I first saw this 5 months ago, and have horoughly enjoyed a re-watch. ...... Redcoat has a first class narrator style, which is amplified still further by the authentic pronounciation of Zulu names and words. ...... Given the global interest in wars in South Africa, I would like to think that a lucrative deal with a TV company may soon arrive!

[@redcoathistory]

Many thanks - but I think sadly a deal with a TV company is very unlikely...I think KZbin is probably the only place we can keep stories of British military history alive these days. Appreciate your commnets.

[@zen4men]

@@redcoathistory You are welcome. ...... I will cross my fingers for you. ...... Though as you say, anything respecting British military history is under attack from the Marxists.

[@georgeadams3900]

I am completely on board with you...Thank you...George Adams...San Diego, CA.

[@anthonyvelasco7881]

Thank you for the overview. It is very well done. As a retired Army officer, I studied this battle and others in the Zulu wars and always wondered why the British did not form squares by company or a one large one near the mountain. I am not sure if it would have made any difference, but it would have cost the Zulus much more and might have halted their assault for a time. 56 Cal bullets are very formattable in mass, as the British soldiers could do well.

[@redcoathistory]

Thanks for your comment sir. The issue I believe is one of over-confidence. . . There seemed no need to form square at the base of the mountain and by the time it was clear that they should have done they had already broken and had no cohesion.

[@thomasscoffham3278]

Found your Podcast a couple of weeks ago. Great work. Just stumbled onto this video because I was watching clips from Zulu Dawn. Will look forward to catching up with these also.

[@gregoryabbot420]

Custer split HIS forces at the Battle of the Little Big Horn too. While also being over confident in dealing militarily with indigenous peoples. He got the same result too.

[@clive0956]

Excellent thanks

[@redcoathistory]

Thanks Clive

[@oldhippiejon]

Well done, would have liked the mention of the 'stands in square' made by the other 24th men mentioned and the fact one company managed to keep in moving square for a mile or so from the field. Durnford in my opinion should have at least have sent message to Pope that he was retiring through ammunition shortage caused I believe because no one knew where their ammunition wagon was parked but you are right his withdrawal marked the end for the British. For the Zulu it was also the beginning of the end like the Sioux at Little Bighorn they won the battle but lost the war, tragic.

[@lyndoncmp5751]

Indeed. Durnford recklessly rode off chasing Zulus and did not care to make sure where his own ammunition wagon would be located in the camp. And yes, it would appear that Durnford did not strive to pre warn Pope that his men were running out of ammunition and would have to retire. Pope's men on foot could then have begun their own firing withdrawal before. However, Durnford appears to have left them in the lurch and abandoned C Company while his own men quickly retreated back to camp on horseback.

[@redcoathistory]

Hi John - thanks for your input...you make valid points. As I say at the start of the video for a full understanding it's worth watching my other videos on the battle where I do mention the fate of Lt Anstey's company etc - it's impossible to mention everything in a short video, hence the entire series of films 👍🏻Even then I am still learning and I'm sure it will be years before I have knowledge of @Lyndon CMP who clearly knows his stuff 👍🏻

[@lyndoncmp5751]

Redcoat I would say you are equally as knowledgeable as I am, perhaps more so. I have never even been to the battlefield. Pope's G Company I meant, not C Company. Typing too fast on a small phone.

[@stephenhughes9548]

Brilliant video Very interesting but sad so many lost their lives Until seeing this explanation of the conflict my only knowledge gained was from the two big screen films Well presented thanks