To what extent was Cetshwayo responsible for the conquest and destruction of the Zulu kingdom?

The question requires that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the suggestion that Cetshwayo was responsible for the conquest and destruction of the Zulu kingdom. Candidates may offer equal coverage of the role played by Cetshwayo and other factors, or they may prioritize their assessment of one over the other. Candidates may refer to Cetshwayo’s withdrawal of forces from the borders, which may have weakened their protection. His failure to satisfy the ultimatum issued by Sir Henry Bartle Frere in 1878, lead to the British attack on the Zulu in 1879. Cetshwayo’s strategy may have contributed to their military defeat. Candidates may also refer to British support for the Boer claim on Zulu land, and the discovery of diamonds which contributed to British interest in destroying the Zulu kingdom. Weakness in the Zulu organisation made it difficult to organise a strong military force during the war with the British. Other relevant factors such as the military superiority of the British may be addressed. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.