The devastating war that raged upon the South African veldt between 1899 and 1902—the first of the 20th century wars—was small in comparison with the World Wars. Yet it remains a war with many revealing facets with regard to military, political, and social issues. The conflict between the British Empire and the Boer settlers was in many ways a precursor to what was to come. It saw vast changes in the organization, tactics, and weapons used by the British army; it had far-reaching effects on the white political structure in the country; and it stimulated Afrikaner nationalism, which may partly explain the introduction of apartheid.

The Historical Dictionary of the Anglo-Boer War presents the history of this war, which is also known as "the South African War," "the Boer War," and "the Transvaal War." This is done through a chronology, an introductory essay, a bibliography, and over 600 cross-referenced dictionary entries covering a wide range of military, social, cultural, and political topics. Whether reading about black involvement in the war or repatriation and compensation after the war, this reference presents the latest in research on this important conflict.