' The Defence of Rorke's Drift 1879 ' Alphonse-Marie-de Neuville ( French 1835-1885) Oil on canvas, circa 1880. Art Gallery of New South Wales.

'The Defense of Rorke's Drift ' was a battle in the Anglo-Zulu war. Just over 150 British troops successfully defended the garrison against an intense assault by 3,000-4,000 Zulu warriors. , The massive attacks came very close to defeating the tiny garrison but were ultimately repelled. Eleven Victoria Crosses were awarded to the defenders, along with a number of other decorations and honours. ( See history , Anglo-Zulu War )