The Battle of Colenso took place on December 15, 1899, during the Second Boer War. It was fought between British forces, led by General Sir Redvers Buller, and the Boer army defending the town of Colenso in Natal, South Africa. The British aimed to relieve the besieged town of Ladysmith but faced strong resistance from the Boers, who were well-positioned on the hills. The battle resulted in a significant defeat for the British, with heavy casualties and no strategic gains. This setback highlighted the challenges faced by British troops in the war and led to a reassessment of their tactics against the Boer forces.