Book Description

With the hundredth of anniversary of the South African (or Boer) War of 1899-1902 fast approaching, the campaign is receiving increased attention from military enthusiasts of all types. R.G. Hackett's bibliography goes far beyond the bare listing of author, date, contents, etc. that one so often encounters, to become a unique evocation of the era. The original covers of over a hundred books of the period are shown, with several dozen in full color, often showing regimental badges and colors. Most books published before 1920 are covered, with the author drawing not only on previously published bibliographies, but the private records of London rare book dealers and individual collections such as that of the British actor Kenneth Griffith. With a more just society now prevailing in South Africa, the sympathy felt at the time for the Boers by some can once again be appreciated. In addition to many British regimental accounts, this compilation also contains accounts of women in the Boer war effort, Richard Harding Davis' shrewd observations, and the memoirs of a West Point graduate in the Irish-American Brigade in Boer service. South African War Books not only belongs in any comprehensive reference library, but will also be treasured by anyone seriously interested in the period of the colonial wars.