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The British had invaded deeply into Zulu controlled territory. Unfortunately, the British were overconfident, making a few fundamental errors. The Zulus were therefore able to massacre the British, who were over run by the Zulus in a classic Bull manoeuvre (Heavy frontal attack, with two horns performing flanking manoeuvres).

In any event, a minor force was able to cross over the river that separated British controlled South Africa and the lands controlled by the Zulus. This minor scouting force encountered the troupes stationed at Rorkes drift. However, unlike the earlier encounter, the British troops were able to build a reasonable defended position from which to employ their weapons

It was never a major objective for the Zulus. However, this does not mean that the fighting was not fierce and a reflection of this was in the amount of VC awarded for the action (Although less generous historians will state that the media frenzy that followed this action and the medals were an attempt to draw attention away from the earlier military disaster).

The Zulu war lasted about 2 years, resulting in the eventual destruction of the Zulu nation.

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12y ago
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10y ago

Rorkes Drift started due to the impulsiveness of a young Zulu general Prince Dabulamanzi kaMpande, who wanted to punish British soldiers wherever they were.

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Q: Why did the battle of Rorkes Drift start?
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Related questions

How long did the battle at rorkes drift last?

The battle of Rorkes Drift lasted 2 days.


Who fought the battle of rorkes drift?

The British and the Zulu.


Why did the battle of Rorkes Drift take place?

because the Zulu nation was not happy with the British taking over their lands.


What famous film chronicled the battle of rorkes drift?

Zulu. It has some historical inaccuracies, but it is a very good and entertaining film.


When was the Rorke's Drift battle?

The battle took place on January 22-23, 1879 during the Zulu Wars (Anglo-Zulu War) in Africa.


Names of those killed at Rorkes Drift?

Sixteen members of the British force and 351 Zulu were killed at Rorke's Drift.


Who were the combatants of the battle of rorkes drift?

The battle of Rorkes Drift was fought between 3000 Zulu warriors and only 100 British troops, and the British, Australian, Dutch soldiers Fought to the last 12 Men.The Zulu soldiers Stopped and Honored Them with a Chant from on top of the Hill Just like in the Movie. So no side one, For if the Zulu had Charged One more time they would Have wiped Them all Out.All were Awarded the Victoria Cross


Who was cetshwayo.?

King of the Zulu people in South Africa. He was defeated in the remarkable British defence of the mission at Rorkes Drift in 1879.


What weapons were used in the Rorkes Drift?

The British used the standard British Army rifle and the Zulu's used the short assegai.


What country had the battle of Rorke's drift?

Britain and the Zulu's had the Battle of Rorke's Drift.


Where was Cetshwayo kaMpande born?

King of the Zulu people in South Africa. He was defeated in the remarkable British defence of the mission at Rorkes Drift in 1879.


What are the release dates for On The Scene Drift Battle - 2005?

On The Scene Drift Battle - 2005 was released on: USA: April 2005