Book 35

Throughout the Anglo-Zulu wars, the British fortified almost every position they occupied in Zululand, from permanent column depots to temporary halts on the lines of communication. This book explores the extensive fortifications constructed around posts such as Eshowe, Fort Pearson and Fort Chelmsford, as well as the lives of the garrisons who manned these sites. These forts were built to defend against infantry attacks of overwhelming numbers, as opposed to artillery bombardment or mining, and the text, illustrations and photographs describe their distinctive style and construction. Field and temporary fortifications are also covered, making this a packed and informative reference work, and bringing new life to this popular subject.

Book 81

Maori Fortifications

by Ian Knight

Published 2 April 2009
The Maori people of New Zealand were experienced field engineers and it was common practice to protect villages with surrounding entrenchments and wooden palisades, known as pas. However, it was not until 1845, with the first fighting between the Maori and the British, that it became clear just how strong and sophisticated the Maori fortifications were. For the best part of 20 years, the Maori held off the dominant and technologically superior British forces, by adapting and developing their defences in response to new British assaults. This book explores the evolution and design of Maori fortifications, and charts the course of a conflict that would ultimately see the British break the Maori pas, leading to a bitter guerrilla bush war.