The United Kingdom annexed the Transvaal in 1877 to expand its South African empire
The British Empire expanded its reach in 1877 by annexing the South African Republic of Transvaal, a move that triggered deep-seated tensions and paved the way for future conflict.
In 1877, Sir Theophilus Shepstone rode into Pretoria and officially annexed the Transvaal for the United Kingdom. The British justified the move by claiming the Boer republic was financially bankrupt and unable to defend itself against local Zulu forces. However, many Boer residents viewed the annexation as a direct violation of their independence.
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