Examine the political and economic consequences for the Boers of the discovery of gold.

The question requires that candidates consider the interrelationship between the discovery of gold and its political and economic consequences for the Boers. Consequences may extend beyond the timeframe but must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Candidates may refer to political consequences which involved a large influx of outsiders, who demanded political rights and challenged Boer power, which resulted in conflict. Boer nationalism was increased and new foreign policies were created to resist British pressure. Paul Kruger acquired a more authoritarian position as leader of the resistance to Britain. Economic consequences may include large increases in spending, investment and financial speculation, foreign trade increased sharply, the traditional agricultural economy was undermined. Government revenues increased which allowed for increased military expansion and infrastructure development. Wealth changed the traditional agricultural lifestyle, led to growing urbanization and saw the influx of many native and Asian workers which disrupted the social structure. The wealth of the Boers made them targets for imperial expansion by Britain and led to war. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.