The Battle of Spion Kop took place from January 17 to January 24, 1900, during the Second Boer War. British forces aimed to capture a strategic hill called Spion Kop in South Africa, which was held by the Boer troops. The battle was marked by poor planning and difficult terrain, leading to heavy casualties for the British. Despite initial advances, the British were unable to secure the hill due to fierce resistance from the Boers and a lack of adequate support. The battle ended in a costly defeat for the British, highlighting the challenges they faced in the conflict against the Boer forces.