Military men and politicians gathered in Québec City in 1899, shortly before the departure of the first volunteer contingent for the South African War. Canada joined the British in this conflict over territorial expansion in South Africa. Once again, the great history of the world fills the little streets of Québec City. The war ended three years later, in 1902.

1899 - 1920

The South African War, from 1899 to 1902

At the turn of the 20th century, war broke out in South Africa between the Boers—the descendants of the original Dutch, German and French colonizers—and the British. Canada, a dominion of the British Empire, sent soldiers overseas for the first time to support British troops. The first Canadian contingent of 1,000 volunteers left Québec City for South Africa by boat on October 30, 1899, shortly after the start of the conflict. The British won in 1902. See how Québec City residents experienced this milestone in the country’s history!

Group of military men and politicians

Jules-Ernest Livernois Ltd. Military men and politicians gathered in Québec City in 1899, shortly before the departure of the first volunteer contingent for the South African War. Canada joined the British in this conflict over territorial expansion in South Africa. Once again, the great history of the world fills the little streets of Québec City. The war ended three years later, in 1902.

Chronoscope Can you identify any of the people in this image? (unilingual French for a limited time)

Depicted period: 1899

Source: Ville de Québec Document in the public domain (free of copyright) - Date: 1899–10

OPEN