Practically Over

Practically Over by Robin Smith, published in 2022 by TSL publications is a meticulously researched account of the latter stages of the Anglo‑Boer War (1899–1902). Spanning approximately 208 pages, this A4-format volume combines narrative text with over 100 colour illustrations, photographs, and hand-drawn maps, offering readers a vivid, ground-level view of the war’s guerrilla phase. The title references the famous remark attributed to British Commander-in-Chief Lord Roberts, who prematurely declared the conflict “practically over” in 1900—an assertion contradicted by continued resistance and significant military engagements over the following two years.

In Practically Over, Robin Smith combines archival research, English and Afrikaans primary sources, and on-site observations to recreate the experiences of both combatants and civilians. The book’s chapters focus on individual battles and skirmishes, detailing strategic decisions, troop movements, and the impact on the surrounding communities. Maps and diagrams help contextualize each engagement, while photographs provide a visual record of the landscapes and monuments that still bear traces of conflict. Smith’s narrative balances historical accuracy with readability, making the book accessible to scholars, battlefield enthusiasts, and general readers interested in South African military history.

The combination of precise research, vivid storytelling, and visual documentation makes Practically Over a definitive resource for understanding the often-overlooked later stages of the Anglo-Boer War. It serves both as a scholarly reference and a compelling narrative journey through a conflict that shaped the history and landscape of southern Africa. This edition is an essential addition to libraries, private collections, and anyone interested in the historical realities behind one of the region’s defining wars.

Condition: Fine/Like New – No notable defects.