The Zulu Kingdom bordered the Transvaal which brought Boers and Zulu into conflict over territory in the border region. However, it was the British seeking confederation of the various territories of southern Africa under the High Commissionership of Henry Bartle Frere that led to the outbreak of the Zulu War in 1879.

Zulu King, Cetshwayo kaMpande

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Frere issued an ultimatum to Zulu king Cetshwayo calling for the disbanding of his army. These demands were unacceptable and forced the Zulu kingdom into direct conflict with British forces. The Zulu Kingdom was defeated but embarrasing losses, particularly at the Battle of Isandhlwana, undermined British authority in southern Africa.