Biographies – Gerry van Tonder

Ahead of Her Time: Lady Sarah Wilson

Lady Sarah Spencer-Churchill, an aristocrat and Winston Churchill's aunt, broke Victorian norms as one of the first female war correspondents during the Second Boer War. She reported on the Siege of Mafeking for the Daily Mail, served as a nurse, and even engaged in espionage. Captured by the Boers but undeterred, Lady Sarah's adventurous spirit and defiance of societal expectations marked her as a pioneering figure. Her contributions to journalism and wartime nursing left a legacy of challenging gender barriers. She passed away in 1929, a woman truly ahead of her time.

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The Peacemaker General: Field Marshall Herbert Plumer

By Gerry van Tonder

Field Marshal Herbert Plumer, "Old Plum," is remembered for his leadership in WWI and as High Commissioner to Palestine, where he worked to foster peace between Jews and Arabs. Celebrated for his apolitical and fair administration, Plumer's efforts improved living conditions for all under his governance. Despite health issues, his commitment to duty earned him the title of Viscount. Plumer's legacy, marked by military distinction and effective civilian governance, culminated in a revered burial at Westminster Abbey, reflecting the deep respect and gratitude of the nation and its king for one of Britain's greatest generals.

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