1871 in South Africa

See also: 1870 in South Africa, other events of 1871, 1872 in South Africa and the Timeline of South African history.

Events

• Diamonds are discovered in New Rush (later renamed Kimberley
• Gold is discovered in Pilgrim's Rest
• The Griqua claims to the diamond fields are recognised and the Griqua leader Waterboer seeks British protection
• Britain annexes the diamond fields of Kimberley and Griqua West
• The diamond mining stimulates migrant labour, two thirds of Black workers come from Limopo valley
• A mail route is established from Cape Town to the diamond fields

Births

Deaths