Letters from Mafeking: Eyewitness Accounts from the Longest Siege of the South African War

Mafeking was the longest and the most controversial of the three sieges that began the South African War in 1899. Lasting 217 days, the Siege of Mafeking brought a highly charismatic leader to public attention and involved some controversial practices.While of little military significance, the relief of Mafeking produced unprecedented celebrations across Britain and much of its empire. Sustained over several days, such rejoicings led to the creation the verb to maffick, meaning to celebrate...