Battles & Campaigns · 1852
Sand River Convention
Near Ventersburg, Free State, South Africa
What happened
It was signed on a farm by the Sand River. Britain recognised that the Boer settlers north of the Vaal River could govern themselves. The agreement also banned slavery north of the Vaal and set rules for trade in weapons.
Why it matters
It created the independent South African Republic. It set the terms for relations between Britain and the Boers in the region.
What came next
Disputes soon followed, and in 1877 Britain annexed the republic, one of the causes of the First Boer War.
Did you know?
One of the British signers was a clerk, not a senior official.
Timeline
- 17 Jan 1852Sand River Convention signed.
- 1853Disputes over arms supplies begin.
- 12 Apr 1877Britain annexes the South African Republic.