The Ultimatum

The findings of the Boundary Commission, along with Bartle Frere's ultimatum were read out to Cetshwayo's representatives at the Lower Tugela Drift on 11th Dec 1878. The Zulus sat on the ground facing a row of standing soldiers. They were at first pleased to hear that the vast majority of the disputed territory was to be officially recognised as theirs, but were shocked at the ultimatum, which gave them one month to comply with Frere's demands.