Britain annexed the South African Republic (also known as the Transvaal Republic) on the pretext of Boer mismangement of its state. This ultimately set the stage for the First Boer War.

The Boers were Dutch or Dutch-descended settlers in southern Africa. The Boers had established a number of republics from the 17th century. Britain’s increasing economic activity and territorial expansion in the region led to tensions and conflict with the Boers.