New Republic, 1884

In 1884 the Zulu king Dinizulu, who had succeeded his father Cetshwayo that year, defeated Zibhebu kaMaphita, a chief who had tried to create his own independent kingdom. Boer mercenaries helped both, and Dinizulu gave land to the farmers who had helped him along the banks of the Mfolozi River. On 5 August 1884 the Boers proclaimed the “Nieuwe Republiek” (‘New Republic’) on an area of 13,600 km², with its capital in Vrijheid (Vryheid), meaning 'Freedom'. It was recognised by Germany and the South African (Transvaal) Republic, and in 1886 by the British, although they annexed the coastline to prevent the Boers’ access to the sea. The New Republic flag was red-white-green with a blue stripe at the hoist.