The Boer War in Colour, Vol 1, by Tinus Le Roux

The Boer War in Colour, Vol 1, by Tinus Le Roux. Jonathan Ball Publishers South Africa. Cape Town, South Africa 2022. ISBN 9781776191765 / ISBN 978-1-77-619176-5

The Boer War in Colour, Vol 1, by Tinus Le Roux, stretches beyond the boundaries of literacy and covers a broader spectrum of the reading audience.

Tinus le Roux  

It is difficult to understand why so few books that portray the Anglo-Boer War or South African War in images have been published since the end of the war in 1902. It is even stranger considering the technological revolution in photography since the end of the 19th century and the relatively large number of photographs that were taken during the war. Since the start of the 21st century, there have been dramatic developments in the technological and digital realm, and it is impossible to predict where it will end. The practical application of this digital progress within the context of historical photos — as expressed in the work of Tinus le Roux in this book - is a modern milestone. At first glance, the format of The Boer War in Colour makes one think of the expression: a picture is worth a thousand words. The beautiful coffee table book format as well as the book's use of full colour truly does justice to the magnificence of the photographs. The author has successfully created a new and colourful visual representation of the war bringing it to life for the reader. The emotion captured in several of the photos is remarkable and evokes a certain reaction within the reader. Firstly, the selection of photos shows an in-depth knowledge of the war. At the same time, it serves as a monument to the photographers who took these images and developed them in their darkrooms. Secondly, it offers a balanced portrayal of the war as it features not only the white men who fought on both sides of the war but also the civilians, such as women and children, as well as the black auxiliaries who were drawn into the conflict. A great number of the photos in The Boer War in Colour are relatively unknown and should find favour among readers. The maps and overview of the war offer a knowledgeable and informative guide without detracting from the book's main focus — the colourised images. The attention to detail speaks to the thorough research into the colours and specific shades of the uniforms, shoes, clothing, ammunition, weaponry and other military equipment from the era. I, therefore, believe that this book will have great heritage value, and will be of enormous assistance to help inform and enlighten members of the public, young historians and researchers. In light of the book's educational, historical and aesthetic value, I have no doubt that it will serve as an asset for any archive, library or coffee table. I am also convinced that it will help spark renewed interest in the history of the Anglo-Boer War - particularly among a younger generation. My heartfelt congratulations go to both the author and the publisher for the innovative, fresh and striking way in which the story of the war is told in this book I am keenly looking forward to seeing what volume II will offer — especially since good images of the guerrilla phase of the war are few and far between.

Arnold van Dyk
Anglo-Boer War expert and honorary curator at the War Museum in Bloemfontein

Adding colour to historical photographs of the Boer War (1899-1902) has been a fascinating journey of discovery and learning. I will never tire of seeing a photo transform in front of my eyes and a seemingly one-dimensional face come alive. Often that person suddenly looks so familiar - like someone you know. Colourising these images has also brought me fresh perspectives on this important period of South African history. In colour, faces and places often have more recognition value to the modern eye. ( Tinus Le Roux) [...]

This is an excerpt from The Boer War in Colour, Vol 1, by Tinus Le Roux.

Title: The Boer War in Colour, Vol 1
Subtitle: Conventional War, 1899-1900
Author: Tinus Le Roux
Genre: Boer Wars
Publisher: Jonathan Ball Publishers South Africa
Cape Town, South Africa 2022
ISBN 9781776191765 / ISBN 978-1-77-619176-5
Softcover, 23 x 26 cm, 264 pages, throughout colour photographs