The First Boer War, which commenced in December 1880, was rooted in escalating tensions between the Boer population of the South African Republic and the British Empire, which had been expanding its influence in the region. Key grievances included the British encroachment on Boer lands and governance, coupled with the desire of the Boers to maintain their independence and Afrikaner identity. The immediate trigger for the conflict was the British decision to annex the South African Republic in the 1870s, a move that the Boer populace vehemently opposed.

On December 16, 1880, armed skirmishes began, marking the official start of hostilities. The Boers, skilled in guerrilla warfare, employed tactics that capitalized on their intimate knowledge of the local terrain. Using ambushes and surprise attacks, they quickly targeted British garrisons throughout the region, scoring significant early victories. The British forces, unprepared for the intensity and ferocity of the Boer resistance, found themselves in dire straits as they faced not only military challenges but also logistical difficulties in supplying their troops.

As the war progressed, it became apparent that the conflict would not be a quick engagement. The Boer leaders, such as Paul Kruger and other commanders, displayed remarkable resilience and strategic acumen. The British, on the other hand, struggled to adapt their tactics and suffered setbacks. The war dragged on for several years, resulting in significant casualties on both sides. Ultimately, the First Boer War would leave a lasting impact on the relationship between the British Empire and the Boer republics in southern Africa, setting the stage for future conflicts, including the Second Boer War at the turn of the century.