The Battle of Ulundi 1879 - British v Zulus - Anglo Zulu War

The Battle of Ulundi (also called the battle of Ondini) fought on the 4th July 1879 was the final battle of the Anglo-Zulu War.
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The Battle of Ulundi (also called the battle of Ondini) fought on the 4th July 1879 was the final battle of the Anglo-Zulu War.
In was a battle in which the British used Gatling guns for the first time in action and where regimental colours were carried unfurled for the last time.
The British victory brought to an end the independent kingdom of the Zulus established by Shaka 50 years before hand.
In a bloody, one-sided encounter, over 1,500 Zulu warriors died that morning defending the old Zulu order.
The Zulu War had not started well for the British army.
In one of the great battles in military history, the Zulus defeated the British at the battle of Isandlwana.
Not even the gallant defence of the mission station at Rorke's Drift (made famous in the film "Zulu") could deflect the scale of the disaster a few miles down the road.
The British commander, Lord Chelmsford, was bent on revenge - not least to salvage his reputation before his replacement, General Sir Garnet Wolseley, arrived in South Africa.
With a fresh army he re-invaded Zululand and by the beginning of April 1879 he was just a few miles from the Zulu capital at Ulundi (Ondini).
He brushed aside peace overtures from the Zulu king, Cetshwayo, and prepared for battle.
The day before the battle of Ulundi, the British nearly suffered another disaster.
Sir Redvers Buller, commanding a force of 500 mounted irregulars was nearly surrounded in a carefully laid ambush of 4,000 Zulu warriors.
In the ensuing scramble to get out of the trap 3 Victoria Crosses were awarded (including 2 to members of the Frontier Light Horse).
The following day (4th July 1879), Lord Chelmsford formed his army into a giant square and advanced on Ulundi.
The Zulu army of about 20,000 launched one final assault on the invaders but the British firepower was overwhelming.
As they started to fall back, the 17th Lancers emerged from the British square to clear the field.
The battle marked the effective end of the independent Zulu kingdom.
Battle of Ulundi Casualties
The battle was a one-sided affair.
the Zulus lost 1,500 warriors whilst the British lost 10 killed and 69 wounded.
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Chapters
0:00 Intro
0:43 battle of Isandlwana
1:41 Second Invasion
2:05 Cetshwayo
2:58 British close in
4:13 Sir Redvers Buller
6:11 Victoria Crosses
9:44 Eve of battle
10:23 British advance on Ulundi
11:00 The British Square
13:01 The Zulu Army
14:11 Battle of Ulundi
16:06 17th Lancers
16:40 End of the Zulu Kingdom
18:39 The History Chap
#battleofulundi #battleofondini #zuluwar
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My name is Chris Green and I love to share stories from British history. Not just because they are interesting but because, good or bad, they have shaped the world we live in today.
History should not be stuffy or a long list of dates or kings & queens.
So rather than lectures or KZbin animations, I tell stories that bring the past to life.
My aim is to be chat as if I were having a coffee or meal with you. Jean in Maryland, USA recently wrote: "Chris, is the history teacher I wish I had at school!"
Just for the record, I do have a history degree in Medieval & Modern history from the University of Birmingham.
Disclaimer: All opinions and comments expressed in the 'Comments' section do not reflect the opinions of Chris Green Communication Ltd t/a The History Chap. All opinions and comments should contribute to the dialogue. Chris Green Communication Ltd does not condone written attacks, insults, racism, sexism, extremism, violence or otherwise questionable comments or material in the 'Comments' section, and reserves the right to delete any comment violating this rule or to block any poster from the channel.

[@cliffwall6593]

Extremely interesting, I grew up in South Africa after being born in England and THIS is one battle that was not taught to us at school, we learned about the Battle of Blood River, Battle of Isandlwana and others I cant remember, Chaka (Shaka) and Dingaan (Dingane). Now 50 years later I'm still learning about things, Will school never END!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching.

[@janlindtner305]

Then my day is saved, another damn good lecture. An under-exposed historical highlight, a good narrator who without irrelevant visual material and disturbing dramatic noise music, delivers a nuanced story. It doesn't get much better. Thanks again Chris, and with high regard Jan

[@DarrenMarsh-kx8hd]

Hear hear.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Very kind of you. Thanks.

[@thedisabledwelshman9266]

@@TheHistoryChap if im right in thinking. general gordon lost his head... litterlly

[@rodeastell3615]

Another brilliant history lesson and told in such away that takes nothing away from the brave Zulu warriors. Thanks for posting.

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure.

[@deaddocreallydeaddoc5244]

The Britsh were also remarkably brave as they were all over their empire working to end slavery and spending a significant amount of blood and treasure to do it. The courage and tenacity of the approximately 100 soldiers at the Battle at Roarke's Drift, even gained the respect of the Zulus themselves.

[@Xheph]

@@deaddocreallydeaddoc5244 The British were brave, sure, and they were spending their money on ending slavery (which was a good change of heart), but its hardly as noble as you make it sound considering the British invaded broader South Africa for gold and diamonds - meaning thousands upon thousands of soldiers died in the name of British government's greed, while thousands upon thousands of civilians were displaced and killed too - and that blood-money is what was used to end slavery. In other words, the British were remarkably brave and iniquitous

[@coult001]

I cannot help but admire the way the Zulus tried to defend their homeland against all ods... ! Thanks for another great story.

[@glynwoodage7280]

Originally, the Zulu tribe emanated from the Ngunis who inhabited the central and Eastern Africa and subsequently migrated to the Southern Africa in the “Bantu Migration” which occurred.

[@realhorrorshow8547]

It was a clash of two ruthless imperial powers, one of which had better weapons and tactics than the other. Neither being black nor being the losers makes the Zulus "the good guys".

[@danran100]

@coult You admire the terrible deaths of the Brittish ? You are feacel matter.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Brave men.

[@heofonfyr6000]

@@glynwoodage7280 Ngunis and all Bantu originate in Nigeria if you go back far enough. At any rate the Zulus were a migrating invading force that reached 'South Africa' long before whites, but didn't encroach on the area where this fighting took place until just a generation or two before the first contact. At any rate the Zulus were a threatening alien force pushing southwards enslaving and displacing the nomadic South African native Koasa peoples who essentially became settled with/ partnered to the whites from their first arrivals and subsequent nationbuilding from the early 1500s.

[@ChristopherSLucas-hv7nz]

You are not only a scholar, but a wonderful story teller. I love your ability to do justice to both sides.

[@TheHistoryChap]

very kind of you. Please join my supporter's club at www.thehistorychap.com/Supporters-club

[@the5thmusketeer215]

YET ANOTHER typically & commendably BALANCED & moving account of a pivotal Colonial era battle… full of pathos & stirringly detailed accounts of outstanding bravery & selfless devotion to duty & camaraderie on both sides… WELL DONE, Chris. 🥇🏆 EVERY SINGLE EPISODE on your EXCELLENT Channel, is a genuine treat, & one that I always look forward to viewing, the very moment that I receive a welcome alert that you have posted a new one. 😊👍

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your very kind words of support. Much appreciated. make sure you join my supporters club at www.thehistorychap.com

[@Matelot123]

Another thoroughly entertaining and cracking story well told. Brilliant stuff. Thank you.

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure.

[@fredazcarate4818]

Grand retelling of the battle Sir. Your description of officers involved, strategies employed, and tactics and armaments. Not too mentioned a bit of old fashion political intrigue . The bravery of Zulu warriors described made this video lecture of "The Battle Of Ulundi" extremely informative and vivid. Bravo Sir and well done. I hope for more morsels!

[@TheHistoryChap]

You are right, the battle of Ulundi gets overlooked too often.

[@malcolmkensett8784]

Well presented and narrated. Thank you 😊

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure.

[@joeritchie4554]

Another great history lesson. Thank you!

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure.

[@anselmdanker9519]

Thank you for bringing this to life !Cheers !

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. Thanks for watching.

[@williamkettle8666]

Excellent video Chris . Your videos are always clear,precise and accurate.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Very kind of you. Thanks.

[@FranciscoPreira]

Another great video sir, thanks for sharing.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@ceciljohnrhodes4987]

What a great way to spend a Thursday evening, brilliant presentation as always.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for watching.

[@wingcommanderdaltonwalton67]

Another fantastic episode! I’m going to have anxiety attacks all night hearing of those rescues on horseback. It’s like an awful nightmare. Thanks again sir.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching.

[@captaincavendish1227]

Great stuff!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching

[@bikes02]

You know it's always a good time to relax with a coffee and listen when notified a new video is here. Your story telling is quite unique(IMHO)and always a pleasure to listen to.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Very kind of you.

[@talpark8796]

well done series, Chris. thx.

[@TheHistoryChap]

A few more battles form this war still to come.

[@talpark8796]

@@TheHistoryChap haha...yes. I spent much time on this chunk of history, as it is really my country's🇨🇦first 'real' war. Considering that such a series length is in that historicalmalleable/

[@martinhogg5337]

Very interesting and informative video. Thank you!

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure.

[@josephphoenix1376]

Excellent Episode 👍 The events are still relevant today!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for taking the time to comment. History shapes our today’s

[@wepittman1]

Congratulations! This was one of your very best videos. While all of your work is EXCELLENT, this one was superb. Many thanks!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for those kind words of support.

[@davidwoods7720]

Thanks so much Chris

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. Thanks for watching.

[@carlkinvig6047]

By strange coincidence I had just finished watching Zulu on Film 4 when this video popped up on my notifications. Very good and informative as always, really enjoyed it. Have to feel some sympathy for the Zulu warriors running headlong into horrendous gun fire, much like the British would do in the 1st world war, equally brave actions.

[@johnroche7541]

Check out the movie "Zulu Dawn" from 1979 which depicts the build up to the invasion of Zululand and the movie culminates with the Battle of Isandlawana. It is made on a great scale and I prefer it to "Zulu" as it is more historically accurate.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment.,

[@Davy.J.Y]

Great video , i enjoyed listenning to the battle of Ulundi .

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you.

[@andrewsteele7663]

Thanks again Chris, for another amazing telling. I was gobsmacked by the metaphoric brick wall. And the mental image of the Zulus crawling forward under the fire from the Martini's. I could hear the projectiles whizzing past, I actually have on my desk in front of me a handful of Martini 577-450 projectiles that I have cast for loading the round. And I look at them and think of the 35,000 of them that were fired that day, Cheers and thank you.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my telling of the story. Thanks.

[@martingame3726]

Hi Chris, an unexpected pleasure to meet you at the "Clash of Empires" event with Chris, "Redcoat". The two of you are doing an excellent job of improving my understanding of military history, something I have difficulty getting from books alone. Well done, keep it up. Martin

[@TheHistoryChap]

Great meeting you too. It is a fantastic exhibition.

[@mickmc5807]

Another good one Chris.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Many thanks.

[@mikehogan9265]

When I taught History back in the 70's I took a class on a tour of the battlefield at Ulundi. It amazed me that the hearths on which the Zulus built their cooking fires in their huts were still evident. I majored in History at the University of Natal and was fortunate to have Professor Duminy as one of our lecturers. I enjoyed the stories my grandfathers told me of Natal and the Boer War, both having fought on the British side. My paternal grandfather was a career soldier and fought against the Zulus in the 1906 rebellion as well. There are not many today who have heard first hand accounts of this period of Natal history and I am privileged in this.

[@TheHistoryChap]

That is a heck of an experience. Thanks for sharing.

[@grandadmiralzaarin4962]

I have to say that I cannot help but feel a degree of pity for the Zulu as Ulundi wasn't so much a battle as it was a firing squad.

[@bert8373]

More like a shooting gallery

[@Trebor74]

I doubt the zulus would have complained if the boot was on the other foot.

[@realhorrorshow8547]

Perhaps if you'd been in that close-packed British formation, which Zulu riflemen could not miss, you'd have a different opinion.

[@danran100]

@granda Boo effing Hoo !

[@grandadmiralzaarin4962]

@@realhorrorshow8547 18 killed and 89 wounded. Out of 5,200 British and native contingent. Just over a 1/52 ratio for killed and wounded. The Zulus were not proficient marksmen and more importantly the entire conflict was unnecessary, having been the fault of the local British governor massively exceeding his mandate in pursuit of his own ambitions. Frere is directly responsible for every single needless death in the Anglo Zulu war as well as the generational chaos that plagued the region long afterwards.

[@colinharbinson8284]

Great stuff, as usual.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Many thanks.

[@paulspice4717]

Excellent as usual

[@TheHistoryChap]

Many thanks.

[@H4CK61]

One of the best Subs i have brilliant well done.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Very kind of you. Thanks.

[@BMWtphs]

Another excellent video. The way you tell the history with your pacing and tone is spot on. A couple of things to unpack for me though. First you have gotten me addicted to British military history. From the 18th to 19th centuries the British military is incredibly fascinating. I really enjoy learning more about it as an American. Secondly I couldn’t help but notice you mentioned a band at the end. It leads me to wonder did Lord Chelmsford deliberately make sure he had a band in anticipation of his victory? Was he purposely trying to restore his reputation and his honor? I think so. If so I can’t help, but find this funny that he meant to do that on purpose. It seems very British, but not in a bad way. Just like the British taught the 4th marines in China the fife and drums making them the only fife and drum in the corps. Lastly it would be great in my humble opinion if you could please do a video on the purchasing system of officers in the British Army. I understand the basics and I know it was done in different countries, but it seems to be the most prevalent in the UK. Again love the videos and look forward to more. Cheers 🍻

[@georgecoventry8441]

I think it was pretty common for large military formations to include a band at that time. The band's patriotic music and drumming helped to increase the morale of the soldiers and add additional pomp and glory to the entire mission.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I think @georgecoventry8441 has given a good answer to your question.

[@jeffbruin5487]

Well told story! It was good to say hi to you at the clash of empires exhibition too.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Nice to meet you too. Great exhibition.

[@stigg333]

Great story and very well told, with that many guns, cannons and Gatling guns even Chelmsford couldn't loose that battle!! Thanks for that and stay well.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Chuckling. :)

[@maxreed2343]

Well once again, I must thank you SO immensely for giving me a history lesson only someone of your wonderous expertise could give, Chris dear chap, cos thanks to at long last seeing our big smash hit from the 60s 'Zulu' recently I've become rather attracted to the Zulu war campaign, and now I've certainly quite a few interesting hitherto unknown to me facts about this, the final battle which smashed and effectively ended the Zulu nation as a whole, the Battle of Ulundi, especially that we Brits first put the infamous Gatling Gun to effective use for the first time here. So, I wonder what you'll deliver with your amazingness next then? Could we possibly have some videos on the naval battles we Brits fought against Spain and Napoleon's France in the 1790s and the start of the 1800s, especially those our very well known Naval figure heroine Lord Viscount Horatio Nelson was a part of himself, including THE one of 'em all at Trafalgar? Cos I've known quite a bit about that part of our military history for years, but not ALL, so would certainly love it if you could possibly do something like that, Nelson vs Napoleon and Spain, plus, if possible, the Battle of Sedgemoor too

[@TheHistoryChap]

I am intending to go back into the 17th & 18th centuries very soon.

[@NigelDeForrest-Pearce-cv6ek]

Brilliant!!!!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Very kind of you.

[@Aramis419]

I can HEAR you smile during your narrations!

[@TheHistoryChap]

I do sometimes.

[@DarrenMarsh-kx8hd]

"There's something else, I feel ashamed" says Lt Bromhead [Michael Caine] in the movie Zulu, hes refering to himself personally killing people, and, i would assume, the massive death toll at Rorke's Drift, but I think that's more applicable for this battle, while the Victorian soldiers should be commended for thier bravery, dicipline and unwavering sense of duty, the same cannot be said of Clemsford,and, i believe, history will not remember him in a positive light. Thank you for yet another riveting historical presentation.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Nice tie in to Michael Caine's words in "Zulu".

[@simonkevnorris]

I'd heard of this battle a number of times but had never looked into what actually happened. I don't think the Zulus had a chsnce. They never left their lands to invade Natal or the other British controlled areas. Thanks for an interesting and informative video.

[@johngeraci3887]

Excellent

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@Crustymarine]

Good telling. Interesting mention of the Royal Scotland Regiment. Towards the close of the Gulf War 1991. My Company had exchanged organizational visits (equipment show and tell) with The Royal Highland Fusiliers. Impressive soldiers. Although, we needed some translation with help from the English Officers. LOL

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for taking the time to share.

[@davidarchibald50]

Hi THG. Growing up and growing old in New Zealand, I learned of the great colonial battles against out Tangata Whenua (the Maori). I know you have done an excelent video on gate Pa, but the Battle of Rangiriri is one that fascinates me. While Welsh soldiers fought there ( My mother was from Merthyr Tyfil) I somehow do not identify with them. Reading the story at the small tearooms near the battle site I was torn in my loyalties. The Maori were in defense of their home and way of life. As a New Zealand born native I felt myself fighting with them, hopelessly, as they fought against a foe invading their home. Maybe you could do a video on this, the defense of the Waikato, the golden heart of New Zealand.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for the suggestion

[@cecilwilson5442]

Brilliant stuff ☘️ from northern Ireland,, then in 35 years full blown weaponry war touching every street on these islands,, brilliant lesson,, enjoyed that 👍👍

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching.

[@vincentlavery2568]

My son has popped my KZbin on the TV. Watching these on big screen. Bliss.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you are enjoying.

[@camrenwick]

The narration of the story is excellent

[@TheHistoryChap]

Very kind of you. Please make sure you subscribe to my channel so you don’t miss future videos.

[@89volvowithlazers]

nice work sir, Michael Caine has just a little bit on you :), nice work truly as always

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks.

[@markwilkes8209]

Hi Chris, after listening to an account of a " battle "...brilliant presentation again I might add, Michael Caine's reply to Stanley bakers question at the end of the film is how I felt after watching this...ashamed 😞

[@TheHistoryChap]

Nice comment.

[@quieneselpatron790]

Great storytelling. I wonder if you have information or plan to do a series on the King's African Rifles from WW1 & WW2. My grandfather served from Kenya.

[@TheHistoryChap]

No plans for KAR specifically but will be telling the story of the East Africa Campaign in WW1.

[@quieneselpatron790]

Ok looking forward. I was just interested in the KAR campaigns against the Italians in Somalia, the Vichy in Madagascar, stopping over to Aden and Ceylon on their way to the theater of Burma in a coalition effort to fight the Japanese. That part of the war never gets reported.

[@chesterstaples4579]

Hi Chris. Where did you source that Military Map of Ulundi (@ 2 mins)? I am currently researching the Surveying of Southern Africa for my next book, and have not come across it. Thank you. Enjoyed your lecture.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it. This map was obtained from Wikimedia commons.

[@CliveofEngland]

At full strength the Zulu could field almost 30,000 men in 7 Impis, but by Ulundi in early July they'd been at war with the British for over five months, reducing their force to five Impis of just over 20,000 warriors. Although the Zulu had taken nearly 1,000 Martini Henry rifles at Isandlwana in January many of these were unusable at Ulundi due to wear and tear and depletion of cartridges the Zulu held. Against the firepower of a modern European army around 10,000 strong, a heavy defeat was inevitable in a pitched battle.

[@TheHistoryChap]

As Cetshwayo knew, hence his attempts to negotiate a peace.

[@Bernie5172]

My great grand dad Sam Vickery was in the Staffordshire 80th Regiment in 1879

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing.

[@kingjoe3rd]

Doing a video on the Cardwell Reforms and the history of "buying a commission" could be interesting.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Strangely enough someone else has requested that today. I will add to my list.

[@nathanappleby5342]

I read about this battle online. When Chelmsford was close to Ulundi, Wolseley and his ring of officers were already in Nataand Wolseley was sending urgent telegrams to Thesiger informing him of his arrival and he was to relieve him of command. Thesiger however decided to press on since after Islandlwana he was so close to a redemptive win. Chris, when you mentioned the colors of the 21st being unfurled for this battle, you said it was the last time the British carried colors into battle. I was under the impression that it was really in the First Boer War two years later when a standard was lost in battle. As for Redvers Buller, I gotta say he definitely looked different when he was younger with a full beard and thinner in contrast to two decades later when he had white hair and mustache and wider in the Second Boer War. When Thesiger's army advanced into Zululand again in April, that happens to be after Evelyn Wood won the Battle of Kambula at the end of March which was considered the turning point of the war. At Ulundi itself, Thesiger used the anti-cavalry square tactic really well. It was very sad the Zulus lost their independence because of their defeat in this battle. From a tactics and strategy perspective, here's a comparison: at the Battle of Austerlitz in 1805, Napoleon was able to entice the Allies to attack his weak flank by withdrawing his troops from high ground just as Buller and his men used the firing of their weapons to entice the Zulus to attack. The Zulus tried to overwhelm the British by attacking their weak corners just as the Allies tried to cave in Napoleon's right only at Ulundi Thesiger strengthened his corners with Royal Engineers and Napoleon was able to fill the gap with Marshal Davout's III Corps. In the aftermath of both fights, the British took to lancing retreating Zulus to complete their defeat whilst at Austerlitz whilst Allied troops retreated across a frozen lake French gunners used cannonballs to smash through the ice to drown their retreating foes. Whilst Austerlitz is Napoleon's masterpiece win, Ulundi although smaller in comparison to other great battles, was Thesiger's best win, even though the aftermaths of both were gruesome. At Austerlitz, French losses were 9,000 dead, wounded, and captured while British losses at Ulundi were less than a hundred. The Allies lost 36,000 dead, wounded, and captured while the Zulus lost close to 1,500 of their number and their independence. One more thing: the Battle of Ulundi was fought on America's 103rd birthday.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Nathan, lovely to hear from you again. Thanks for taking the time to present so many different views and facts.

[@nathanappleby5342]

@@TheHistoryChap Your Welcome!

[@formwiz7096]

Buller's action is right out of the Sioux Wars, especially the rescues; interesting how the Zulus and the Sioux had so much in common. Ulundi sounds a lot like the Battle of the Rosebud. Interesting how the British pronounce reveille as "revalley" and the Americans call it "revellee". PS The US Army had a lot of trouble with the Gatling gun, particularly jamming - one reason why Custer didn't take any with him to the Little Bighorn. Did the British army make any changes to get them to work so well? PPS Are you going to do a vid on Gingindlovu?

[@TheHistoryChap]

Gingindlovu, Kambula and Hlobane are all on the cards.

[@cameronbrown9080]

The great British Square saved many a battle and lives for those in it 👍 😊

[@TheHistoryChap]

Indeed.

[@rowbearly6128]

I would suggest that the old Zulu order was already gone, dismantled by Shaka. He reformed the entire society, dispensed with the kin system in favour of militarized cadres. He brought low the witchdoctors that coralled society and unified disparate tribes. An incredible man, as many psychopaths are.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for taking the time to comment

[@NationalEconomicsForum-mk7vo]

The Zulus has murdered and massacred their way to power. So their defeat by the British was no bad thing. Superb video.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts

[@russel2352]

As recently posted I was waiting for this and a good one at that. Growing up in S Africa from early 1950's our schooling never ever mentioned the Anglo Zulu war in our history lessons at school. Emphasis was the early colonial landings, the Great Trek, Anglo Boer War and some European history. All we heard as English speakers was "Remember Majuba!" , called "Rooi Nek" (Red neck from the sunburn the English soldiers had when they arrived here). The Boers and Zulus were not on the best of terms with the murder of Piet Retief and the consequent battle of Blood River. The battle of Blood River was also emphasised in our schooling, it was after all, the time of the Nats government. I suggest one Google Piet Retief to see the gruesome manner that Piet Retief and his party died, Retief was kept to last to witness the death of his son. The town of Piet Retief is named after him.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I too was brought up in South Africa as a Rooi Nek. You forgot the concentration camp battle cry that I was constantly reminded of too.

[@russel2352]

@@TheHistoryChap Oh, yes, constantly. I was unaware you were a soutie from here as well. Even today referred to as V@%$^%$ Engelsman. Recently told after a comment from myself that I have rapist genes in my blood😎 Do not tolerate it like I used to as a youngster though. I know more about the Anglo Boer war than most of them do. Both my grandfathers were active in the Anglo Boer war which makes them doubly narkie.

[@AlecFlackie]

A friend was telling me about the Bambatha Rebellion; I am sure we would all be interested in your take on these events as a 'conclusion' of the Anglo-Zulu war series.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Yes, it would be a good way to finish this sorry tale. It will be coming in good time.

[@annettehadley9718]

Hi again Chris, as a lover of the film Zulu, and the Heroic defence of Rorks Drift, I was some what saddened by this Final Battle of the Zulu Nation. in fact, a Phase comes to my immediate mind " British Colonialism at its utter Worse" Would you agree with my assessment ?... Thanks Chris.

[@TheHistoryChap]

The whole war was contrived to suit larger British strategic ambitions. Ulundi was a sad end.

[@logynmohamed1615]

Good vid mate!

[@logynmohamed1615]

*German

[@Mr.MFuckingYTchangedmyname]

@@logynmohamed1615 Herman ze German!

[@logynmohamed1615]

@@Mr.MFuckingYTchangedmyname oh, I'm sorry I don't understand german , I understand some words!!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Interesting that you wrote Herman. Only because Herman Goering's father was part of that German colonisation of Namibia.

[@redjacc7581]

here here!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for commenting.

[@chriscann7627]

I think that a Royal Naval Gatling was used at the Battle of iNyezane on 22 January, during the advance of the Coastal (No.1) Column on Eshowe.

[@TheHistoryChap]

That's right - a naval gatling gun, not an army one.

[@chriscann7627]

@@TheHistoryChap hahaha! Touche! A fine hair, deftly split! i guess I'll have to give you that one! 🤨

[@londonbudgetgardner5205]

Excellent video Please leave all traditions before you go to battle.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for commenting.

[@jorgedanielisaguirre4757]

Por supuesto que el nombre Beresford me resulta familiar, es el apellido del general británico derrotado en Buenos Aires en 1806. Cuando invadió Buenos Aires desde Sudáfrica y los milicias locales los derrotaron. Creo que se llamaba Willian Car Beresford.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for sharing

[@Baskerville22]

The way all historical docos should be presented. Concise, yet completely interesting, eschewing the cliches, exaggerations and biases that blight so many YT accounts of similar passages in British colonial history.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Very kind of you. Thanks

[@jonathanmendoza742]

Very interisting story..i remember this movie zulu dawn.from Philippines.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Great movie.

[@harryshriver6223]

Another triumph, my friend, about the Zulu War and the end of the Zulu Army at the hands of the British rifles, gatling guns and cannons. I think the Zulu leader wondered how things turned out how they did and thought it was fitting for him to leave the crown along with a photograph of his coronation. Well done, amigo y quiero mas! 😊

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching and for posting your comment.

[@Johnny-Thunder]

11:23 A Gatling gun had been used before, in the battle of Inyezane. Although, if we're gonna be really pedantic, that was part of a naval company, so I suppose it is technically true that at Ulundi the Gatling gun was first used by the British army...

[@TheHistoryChap]

Correct, the Naval brigade certainly not part of the army.

[@tysonator5433]

Another very informative video, and another example of our empire shameful past of victoriana upper class military egos wanting honor and glory ! What a shame as the empire did spread technology, innovation, agricultural, and movement of people.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for taking the time to comment and help raise my video up the YT search engine.

[@knicks01]

I wonder if they had gatling guns at islandawanda and some minimal fortification to fire from safely, would there have been a different outcome?

[@Lassisvulgaris]

"What if", the curse of history....

[@TheHistoryChap]

Possibly. I guess we will never know.

[@redemptivepete]

The old Zulu way of life could no more be allowed to continue than that of the Sioux and Cheyenne in Montana and the Dakotas. There are many parallels between Isandlwana and the Little Big Horn with the last native victory hastening the obliteration of their way of life. Sad but inevitable!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Lots of similarities.

[@briananderson2675]

Put the Boer in the mix.who were like the south.

[@ronaldwhalen8143]

That was awesome always wanted to know how the British went back to kick some ass . Now I know

[@douglasherron7534]

Was Berisford any relation to the man who commanded the Portuguese forces during the Peninsular War?

[@TheHistoryChap]

Not sure.

[@gerardoreynaldo691]

2 Gatlings? If Custer waited for and brought in his Gatling guns in 1876, he would have had a bigger chance against the Indians, and it would have also been a completely different story.

[@TheHistoryChap]

So many historical events turn on small decisions.

[@V.C.S69]

My great grandfather served in the 24th of foot during Zulu War, along with about 16 other men and a Lft Carrington were attached to the 80th Regt at Ulundi as part of a made up Calvary.

[@ThatsMrMoronToYou]

I'm happy the Brits decided to celebrate our independence by fighting on its anniversary. They're good sports.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@frankmueller2781]

Amazing how many lives one man's ambition can cost.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I guess it has always been that way, and always will be

[@anyonecanart3394]

Crazy how much has changed sense 1879.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts

[@FiveLiver]

Sometimes war is necessary to achieve peace.

[@TheHistoryChap]

It is indeed.

[@frankark1046]

Could you tell more about the Zulu destiny, since they are still alive today!

[@TheHistoryChap]

destiny or dynasty?

[@frankark1046]

@@TheHistoryChap Kind of both, but as I understand it, they still have a king and their own land. And I think it is interesting how they survived up to this day. Or I could be wrong and mixing things together, africa is complicated. And thanks for answering! And I find your videos very informative!

[@christopherseivard8925]

As usual, I know that I am learning, because my instinct tells me: you should be taking notes!” Thanks.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Ha ha, thanks for watching.

[@golden.lights.twinkle2329]

Great story, impeccably researched and narrated. The Zulus should not have allowed the British to choose the time and place of battle, but should have melted into the hills and allowed the British to wither in the sun and deplete their supplies.

[@georgecoventry8441]

True. But they probably felt honor bound to defend their capital. Nations usually do.

[@TheHistoryChap]

History is full of decisions, some good some bad.

[@victoriahouse9969]

Lord William De la Poer Beresford V.C - his grandfather had Illegitimate son who was William Carr Beresford.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing.

[@reynardthefox]

They were mighty opponents. Honor them .

[@TheHistoryChap]

Indeed.

[@stanboyd5820]

The 90th Light Infantry carried the battle honour 'South Africa 1879' over when they later amalgamated with the 26th Foot (Cameronians) , only 3 years later, to form the Cameronians (Scottish Rifles) and, ironically as Rifles they would no longer carry Colours.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing.

[@davepangolin4996]

I wonder if the Zulu command considered an assault under cover of darkness ?

[@TheHistoryChap]

I don't think they did. Night time attacks are actually pretty hard to pull off and the Zulus would have been going up against an entrenched British encampment too.

[@infantryricky6807]

Wasn’t it also the last time the British Army last wore red uniforms in battle?

[@TheHistoryChap]

No, they wore them in Sudan a few years later

[@bemusedkidney8619]

It's a cruel irony that the Zulus were ultimately defeated because of their impressive victory. After Isandlwana there was no way the British would leave them be.

[@TheHistoryChap]

You are right. Also ironic that after Isandlwana the British government gave Chelmsford the troops that they didn’t give him for the first invasion (mainly because they told him not to go to war!)

[@s.wvazim6517]

Nailed it as brave and as fearce as they were.

[@briandubois-gilbert8182]

@The History Chap..As you mentioned, Zulu king tried diplomacy and negotiations with Chelmsford to avert a bloodbath-but was rebuffed. In the end the Zulus were compelled to “go to a gunfight” essentially armed with spears and leather shields and the result was a one-sided victory for Britain. The British government would honor the gallantry of the Zulus by naming a Royal Navy destroyer, the HMS Zulu, which fought in WW2. Really appreciate your insightful and fair narrative of this conflict.

[@georgecoventry8441]

The same tragic position the Sioux and Cheyenne were in after winning their victory over Custer. It made their eventual subjugation a certainty.

[@joelombrdo]

​@@ThePalaeontologistwell don't go into other people's lands and push your weight around., As the Brits often did. duhhhhhh

[@kennydeary957]

How did the war start

[@TheHistoryChap]

Check out my video about the battle of Isandlwana.

[@tomtaylor6163]

When Chumsford was around his buddies, did they call him Chumfy?

[@TheHistoryChap]

Who knows?

[@paulwinsor4599]

Why is there such a discrepancy between empty cartridge cases and enemy killed , where the soldiers not very good shots ?

[@TheHistoryChap]

Interesting point. British army tactics still tended to rely on volley fire. Hence many British soldiers weren’t particularly accurate shots.

[@paulwinsor4599]

@@TheHistoryChap and 2 Gatling guns

[@Medmann48]

They should have used the squares at Isandlwana.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Interesting point.

[@whiteknightcat]

Squares at the time, I believe, were mostly used as a defense against cavalry charges. Battle protocol would have called for what ended up being used - volley lines. Recall the British thought the Zulus would be easily scared off by a show of firepower, completely discounting in their hubris the experiences of the Boers in their conflicts with the Zulus.

[@bobwallace9814]

The cradle of humanity a million years old and never evolved past the stone age until nearly the 1900's

[@TheHistoryChap]

Plenty of African cultures advanced beyond the Stone Age.

[@nigelhamilton815]

Why was was buller considered to be a "great" general.?

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video.

[@seanford2358]

Erm…I think you’ll find that the 58th had the honour of being the last British Regt to carry their colours into battle for the last time and that was in 1881 at Laing’s Nek.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for taking the time to comment.

[@pascanal1181]

HI, thanks for posting this as it will save me time typing out some mammoth post about this, i recently did a history check on the Rutlandshire regiment or the 58th Foot, because of army reforms the 58th were amalgamated with the Northamptonshire regiment in 1881 and as you stated at the battle of "Laings Nek" the colours were used, but because of the heavy casualties of the colour party, the order came that in future battles colours were to be kept off the battlefield. Apart from that, Chris does a great job with his videos and i doubt you could find a better presenter!

[@tonyjedioftheforest1364]

The Beresfords were great soldiers and direct descendants of mine. Aren’t family trees brilliant!

[@Mr.MFuckingYTchangedmyname]

Ahem, "ancestors". 😉

[@Shinku4949]

where's the time machine?

[@TheHistoryChap]

Mine is pretty boring in comparison!

[@jayfelsberg1931]

Turned out better for the 17th than Balaclava!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Too true!

[@johnzajac9849]

In the film, 'Zulu', Lt. Chard tells his fellow officer, played by Michael Caine, that he, Chard, would never want to be involved in a battle like the one at Rorke's Drift again.Yet, the real Chard does fight again at Ulundi.

[@whiteknightcat]

But did the real Lt Chard actually speak those words, or was it simply dramatic license?