The events leading up to the Battle of Paardeberg and the capture of Boer General Piet Cronje started on this day.
Cronje was retreating with his forces and a large convoy of wagons from the Northern Cape towards Bloemfontein.
On 17 February 1900 he reached the crossing of the Modder River at Paardeberg Drift and was attacked by a British force.
Cronje decided to form a laager to defend his convoy of supplies and personnel.
