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Heliograph used by British army in Africa
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Heliograph used by British army in Africa
Heliograph used in the British army in Africa, probably during the Boer War (1899-1902). The heliograph is a wireless telegraph that signals by flashes of sunlight (generally using Morse code) reflected by a mirror. Date: C.1900
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Media ID 23272634
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Boer Code Communicating Communication Heliograph Morse Optical Sep19 Telegraph Telegraphy Wireless
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1. Title: "Communicating Across the African Plains: The British Army's Heliograph during the Boer War (1899-1902)" 2.. This photograph depicts a British soldier skillfully using a heliograph to send a Morse code message during the Boer War (1899-1902) in Africa. The heliograph, an optical wireless telegraph, was a vital communication tool for the British military during this conflict, allowing them to transmit information across vast distances quickly and efficiently. The device, which dates back to the late 1800s, consisted of a mirror, a sunshade, and a sighting device. The soldier would align the mirror to reflect sunlight towards the receiver's heliograph, creating a series of flashes that, when decoded, conveyed the intended message. This innovative method of communication proved invaluable in the harsh African terrain, where traditional wired telegraph lines were often impractical or impossible to lay. The Boer War marked the first large-scale use of heliographs in military operations. Their success in transmitting messages over long distances, even through heavy smoke and dust, significantly improved the British military's ability to coordinate troops and respond to enemy movements. This photograph is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the British Army during this pivotal period in African history. The heliograph revolutionized military communication, paving the way for further advancements in wireless technology and ultimately leading to the development of radio communication. This photograph offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, showcasing the importance of effective communication in military strategy and the remarkable adaptability of soldiers in the face of challenging circumstances.
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