Battle of Kambula

On 29 March 1879, the day after Hlobane, a large Zulu force attacked Evelyn Wood’s fortified camp at Kambula. British infantry, artillery and mounted troops fought from a laager and redoubt, using concentrated fire to repel repeated assaults.

The battle caused heavy Zulu casualties and weakened the kingdom’s capacity to continue large offensive operations. It also restored British confidence after earlier reverses and became a turning point in the campaign.

Historical fiction can focus on fortified defence, artillery, infantry discipline, the aftermath of Hlobane and the experience of Zulu regiments attacking a strongly prepared position.