Episode 27 - Oom Paul Kruger evades capture at Poplar Grove
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The Anglo-Boer war, embarked upon by both sides with confidence, was now to be maintained by faith and we shall see how that faith was expressed, and by whom .. and what became of it.
One of these men of faith was Transvaal President, Oom Paul Kruger. Although well into his 70s by this time, he found the energy to climb aboard a rattling Boer train and to travel to both war fronts - in Natal and in the Free State.
When he arrived in Natal he found the Boers in full flight. Buller had successfully relieved Ladysmith and the burghers wanted to leave for home. Kruger found General Joubert sick with illness and defeat and tried to stop what had turned into a stampede. He entreated and exhorted, and promised that he would suggest arbitration to end the war as long as the men stood firm.
Many had decided that it was huis toe or time to go home and had retreated as far north as Newcastle from Ladysmith before they were persuaded to return to fight.
But when Kruger travelled to the front in the Orange Free State at Poplar Grove, Lord Roberts who led the British force had ordered an attack on the Grove on the same day Kruger arrived - March 7th 1900. Would Kruger escape?
One of these men of faith was Transvaal President, Oom Paul Kruger. Although well into his 70s by this time, he found the energy to climb aboard a rattling Boer train and to travel to both war fronts - in Natal and in the Free State.
When he arrived in Natal he found the Boers in full flight. Buller had successfully relieved Ladysmith and the burghers wanted to leave for home. Kruger found General Joubert sick with illness and defeat and tried to stop what had turned into a stampede. He entreated and exhorted, and promised that he would suggest arbitration to end the war as long as the men stood firm.
Many had decided that it was huis toe or time to go home and had retreated as far north as Newcastle from Ladysmith before they were persuaded to return to fight.
But when Kruger travelled to the front in the Orange Free State at Poplar Grove, Lord Roberts who led the British force had ordered an attack on the Grove on the same day Kruger arrived - March 7th 1900. Would Kruger escape?
