An erudite examination of a great military catastrophe

Whilst several works were written concerning the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879 in years immediately following the event, the proliferation of wars that followed it during the imperial period followed by the First and Second World Wars, probably meant that little retrospective consideration was given to the conflict for over half a century. The author of this book, Reginald Coupland was an Oxford University historian who specialised in the history of the British Empire and who had published several works on the subject. This book, published quite close to the end of his life, was a reappraisal of the pivotal-and disastrous for the British- Battle of Isandlwana fought in 1879, which resulted in a significant portion of Lord Chelmsford's centre column (which remained encamped) being massacred by the Zulu Army of King Cetshwayo. The loss of life and damage to British prestige was momentous. Coupland's comparatively early academic re-examination of the event, its causes and his consideration of the actions of those who were present will be fascinating for all those interested in the subject. This Leonaur edition has been enhanced by maps, illustrations and photographs not present in the original edition together with interesting first hand accounts by two survivors from the British camp and two short recollections by Zulu warriors who took part in the battle.

Leonaur editions are newly typeset and are not facsimiles; each title is available in softcover and hardback with dustjacket.