THE ANATOMY OF THE ZULU ARMY: From Shaka to Cetshwayo, 1818-1879

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Covers the Anglo-Zulu wars -- from Shaka to Cetshwayo -- from the Zulu perspective, including training, dress, weapons, and more. Includes b/w illustrations, maps, bibliography, and index.

The Zulu army had its roots in the early groups of young men who took part in combats between tribes, but such warfare was limited to disputes over cattle ownership, grazing rights, or avenging insults. In the early 19th century, the Zulu nation began a period of rapid expansion, and King Shaka began to reform his forces into regular military units.

The Zulu Army was not, however, a professional force, unlike its British counterpart, but was the mobilized manpower of the Zulu state. This charts the development and training of the men that formed the impi which later operated so successfully under King Cetshwayo. It details how the Zulu army functioned and ties its role firmly to the broader context of Zulu society and culture.