A Special West Cove UK Review of:
De La Rey-Lion Of The West: A Biography book by Johannes Meintjes
Whats this book about?
De La Rey – Lion of the West is the first full biography of the legendary Boer General, Jacobus Hercules De la Rey. Written by Johannes Meintjes, this 1966 work provides an in-depth exploration of De la Rey’s life, drawing from extensive unpublished material.
Described as a man of unparalleled military genius and deep personal integrity, De la Rey was a key figure in the Anglo-Boer War, earning admiration from both allies and enemies. The book follows his journey from humble beginnings in the Free State and Transvaal, through his rise as a military leader in the First War of Independence, and onto his remarkable role in the Boer War. His leadership in battles such as Modder River, Magersfontein, and Tweebosch is vividly detailed, showcasing his tactical brilliance and unwavering determination.
Beyond the battlefield, the biography explores De la Rey’s involvement in the Treaty of Vereeniging, his presence at the Durban Convention, and his fateful final days leading up to his tragic death on 15 September 1914. The book also introduces intriguing elements, such as his connection to the enigmatic Prophet Van Rensburg, adding layers of mystery and prophecy to his life story.
Meintjes masterfully captures De la Rey’s character—a man of power, warmth, humour, and deep patriotism—while also delving into the complexities of his later years, filled with political intrigue, personal struggles, and an ultimate sense of destiny.
About the author...
Johannes Meintjes (1923–1980) was a South African historian, biographer, artist, and writer known for his meticulous research and engaging narrative style. With a keen interest in South African history, Meintjes authored several works that shed light on key historical figures and events, often using rare archival material to build compelling narratives.
His biography of General De la Rey stands as a significant contribution to the study of the Anglo-Boer War and South African history, presenting a detailed yet highly readable account of one of the country’s most celebrated military leaders.
Our views about the book...
Reading De La Rey – Lion of the West is an immersive experience, one that brings to life a man whose presence loomed large over South African history. Johannes Meintjes presents not just a military commander but a deeply complex and charismatic figure whose story is both inspiring and tragic.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its use of previously unpublished sources, allowing readers to see De la Rey through a fresh lens. The descriptions of key battles are masterfully detailed, making it easy to appreciate his strategic brilliance and the impact he had on the course of the Boer War. The way Meintjes balances military history with personal insights into De la Rey’s character makes this book more than just a historical account—it’s a deeply human story.
The inclusion of Prophet Van Rensburg adds a fascinating layer, blending history with a sense of mysticism and destiny. Whether or not one believes in fate, the eerie predictions and De la Rey’s untimely death give the book an almost novel-like quality, making it difficult to put down.
For anyone interested in South African history, military strategy, or compelling biographies, this book is a must-read. It stands as a tribute to a man of extraordinary talent and moral strength, whose legacy continues to captivate historians and readers alike.
How rare and collectible is this book?
De La Rey – Lion of the West is a scarce and highly collectible book, particularly as it remains the only full-length biography of General De la Rey. Copies are difficult to find, with only a handful—around four—currently available online, making it an increasingly rare piece of South African history.
Rarity
- The book was published in 1966 and has never been widely reprinted, adding to its scarcity.
- Few copies are in circulation, and those that do appear tend to be snapped up quickly by collectors.
- Finding a well-preserved edition, especially with its original dust jacket, is particularly rare.
Collectibility & Investment Value
- As interest in Boer War history remains strong, this book is a key acquisition for historians, military enthusiasts, and collectors of South African literature.
- Given its limited availability, it is an excellent investment, as copies will only become scarcer over time.
- First editions in good condition are particularly desirable and will likely continue to appreciate in value.
For those passionate about South African history or military biographies, De La Rey – Lion of the West is a must-have. Its increasing rarity makes it not only a fascinating read but also a valuable addition to any collection.
The condition of this book...
This is a nice older book in good condition, showing signs of its age with some tanning, wear, and markings. The cover has light scuffing and minor edge wear, consistent with a well-preserved vintage book. The spine remains strong, with no major damage, ensuring the book is still structurally sound. Inside, the pages have a gentle yellowing, typical of books from this era, but the text remains clear and readable. There are no significant stains or annotations, and the binding remains firm. Overall, this is a well-kept copy that has aged gracefully, making it a solid addition to any collection.
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- Original price was: £110.55.£88.44Current price is: £88.44.
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