The Defence of Rorke’s Drift is one of the most iconic moments in British military history. 150 soldiers defended a lonely outpost against thousands of Zulu warriors in 1879. The Zulus had just inflicted a shocking defeat on a larger British force at the Battle of Isandlwana. They brilliantly outflanked their technologically superior foe and even suffered fewer losses. However, the tiny British force proved resolute in their makeshift fort as they fought through the night. The defenders used wagons, barrels, and meal bags as barriers against the onslaught. They even burnt buildings including the hospital to prevent the enemy from capturing it. The Zulus withdrew in the morning. 11 men received Victoria Crosses for bravery, one of the largest numbers of any single engagement in history.
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