COMMEMORATING A BLOODY WAR: LOOKING BACK (AND AHEAD) ON THE EVE OF THE 120-YEAR COMMEMORATION OF THE ANGLO-BOER WAR OF 1899 TO 1902

Abstract

It is fit and proper that there is a 120-year commemoration of the Anglo-Boer War of 1899 to 1902. After all, it is not possible to understand the history of the twentieth-century South African, if one does not have an understanding of the consequences that the war of 1899 to 1902 have for all South Africans. But how should a terrible conflict be commemorated? To shed light on this and related matters, this paper will in the first instance look back at the Anglo-Boer War centennial of the years 1999 to 2002. What can be learnt from that centennial? What has changed since then? Other matters that will also be addressed in this paper include the importance of preserving Anglo-Boer War (and other) historical structures (for example monuments) and sites; tourism; the importance of museums; how and why transgenerational trauma with regard to the war of 1899 to 1902 (as well as other conflicts) continue to haunt our society – and how the commemoration of the war might play a role in healing our people(s). Suggestions with regard to the way forward will be made, and where possible comparisons with other commemorations will be drawn. In conclusion, the paper endeavours to place the Anglo-Boer War, its consequences, and its commemorations in historical perspective.

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