“The Boers’ attainment of political power was the main consequence of the South African War (1899–1902).” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a balanced and considered review of the statement. Although the focus of the question is on the Boers gaining political power, other consequences of the war will also be considered. Candidates may address how the war had an impact on British policy. Candidates may refer to the Treaty of Vereeniging, which promised eventual self-government to the Boers. The Boers were the largest group with voting rights and Britain supported them and provided them with financial resources. British disenfranchisement of the black South African population strengthened the Boers politically. Apart from the war contributing to the change in British attitude, candidates may discuss other consequences of the war including the death and destruction that took place during the war. Candidates may consider short- and long-term consequences, and/or social and political consequences.

This question produced some able responses with respect to the outcome and consequences of the South African War (1899-1902). Candidates were asked to discuss the extent to which increased Boer political power was the main outcome. Strong responses provided excellent analysis of the reasons for and extent of the increase in Boer political power but also were able to comment on other issues such as physical and human costs as well as social changes, racial policy and racial identity issues.