The capture of Pretoria by British forces represented a critical juncture in the Second Boer War, which began in 1899 between the British Empire and the two Boer republics: the South African Republic (Transvaal) and the Orange Free State. After months of conflict characterized by guerrilla warfare and skirmishes, the British aimed to seize control of the capital city to undermine Boer morale and consolidate their hold over the region. The offensive was part of a larger strategy to dismantle the Boer government and assert British authority. On the morning of June 5, 1900, British troops under the command of Major General Sir Arthur Conan Doyle entered Pretoria, facing little immediate resistance due to the withdrawal of Boer forces to less defensible locations. 

Following the capture, British forces raised the Union Jack, symbolizing their occupation and intent to establish governance over the area. While this victory was a significant blow to the Boer cause, it did not signify the end of hostilities. Boer commandos continued to resist, leading to a prolonged insurgency that would last until May 1902. The capture of Pretoria facilitated British administration efforts and shifted the war's focus toward pacifying the rural areas where Boer support remained strong, leading to increased tensions and civilian hardships as the war intensified in the subsequent years.