1871 in South Africa

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

See also: 1870 in South Africa, other events of 1871, 1872 in South Africa and the Timeline of South African history.

[edit] Events

  • An 83.50 carat (16.7 g) diamond is discovered and leads to a diamond rush. The town of New Rush springs up (later renamed Kimberley)
  • The Griqua claims to the diamond fields are recognised and the Griqua leader Waterboer seeks British protection
  • Britain annexes the diamond fields of Kimberley and Griqua West
  • The diamond mining stimulates migrant labour, two thirds of Black workers come from Limpopo valley
  • A mail route is established from Cape Town to the diamond fields
  • Gold is discovered in Pilgrim's Rest area

[edit] Births

[edit] Deaths