This site began almost by accident in 1996 when I was first experimenting with HTML. As I was a student of the Anglo-Boer War, I was well aware of the (then) significant lack of Web-based resources on this period. Research for my dissertation and a fascination with this remarkable era combined and the South African War Virtual Library was born.
This site is not a celebration of war or of martial endeavour. War is a manifestation of much that is repulsive about our species. The experience of war, however, often highlights the extraordinary resilience, bravery and sacrifice of its participants, willing and compelled. This site, wherever possible, will attempt to lend itself to exploration of these aspects of the war.
I hope you enjoy the South African War Virtual Library.