['Zululand-Isandwahla', 'Zululand-Fort Pearson'] before 1880

These photographs titled ‘Zululand-Isandwahla’ and ‘Zululand-Fort Pearson’, are part of an album by Sam Alexander. They capture landscapes marked by the Anglo-Zulu War, a conflict deeply rooted in British colonial expansion and its impact on the Zulu people. The images are not neutral; they reflect the power dynamics of the time. 'Zululand-Isandwahla' portrays the site of a significant Zulu victory, a rare moment of resistance against colonial forces. Juxtapose this with 'Zululand-Fort Pearson', representing a British stronghold. These photographs highlight the ways in which landscapes can become politicized, imbued with the history of conflict and cultural clash. Consider the emotional weight carried within these images. For the Zulu people, Isandlwana is a symbol of pride and resilience; for the British, it represents a moment of defeat and a justification for further aggression. Alexander's photographs invite us to reflect on the lasting legacies of colonialism, race, and the narratives we construct around historical events.