TOPIC:

Hi Smethwick,

Mrs Sturgy wasn't convinced for the same reasons you gave...maybe she's right

Anyway this was her suggestion:



I agree that the clothes would have been changed out; I guess I was looking for whatever clues I could find.

We will never know but at least it's a bit of fun.

Hi Moranthorse1,

Thanks for the suggestion; what makes this picture interesting is that it's a Father & Son(s) photograph of the men who fought at Majuba along with their sons who had assembled for the 2nd Boer War.

I like it because anyone over the age in 40 was there in 1881.

As a result it wont' have the full compliment of the Wakkerstroom commando (I think).

Regards,
Sturgy

I thought I would have a bit of fun with this and go next level and ask ChatGPT (AI) for some assistance.

This conversation took all but 5 minutes.....

Question 1: Upload Picture (no context provided)



Answer:

This is an iconic historical photograph of a Boer Commando group, likely from the Second Boer War (1899-1902). The image shows a group of Boer fighters, known for their guerrilla warfare tactics against the British. They are heavily armed, with rifles and ammunition slung across their bodies, and the rugged terrain suggests it was taken in a camp during wartime.

The Boer Commandos were citizen-soldiers of the South African Republic and the Orange Free State, primarily farmers who took up arms to defend their territories from British forces. Their informal, mobile fighting units played a key role in resisting British occupation.

Do you have any specific questions or information you'd like to know about this image or the historical context?

Question 2: Can you identify this man in the previous picture of the Boer Commando Group



Answer:

I cannot specifically locate or identify the individual "Hans" or the man in this new image within the larger group photo of the Boer Commando Group. However, if the man in this closer image has distinct characteristics like his facial hair, hairstyle, or clothing, you can try spotting those traits among the individuals in the group.

Looking for distinguishing features like beard style, facial structure, or unique clothing might help identify him in the crowd. If you provide more context about his position in the commando group or any other specific markers, I can help narrow down potential matches.

Question 3: Is this man from Commando the same as the photo that I uploaded earlier?



Answer:

I cannot visually compare or confirm if the man in this latest close-up image ("Possible 1") is the same person as in the earlier uploaded image ("HJ Moolman"). However, you can look for key similarities in facial features such as:

- Beard and mustache style
- Shape of the face or jawline
- Expression or other distinct markers like hats or clothing

If both images contain matching characteristics, there's a possibility that they depict the same individual. If you can describe specific visual traits you think are common between the two, I can help guide you to confirm or rule out a match.

Question 4: Are the eyes and face similar?

Answer:

Based on the close-up images you provided, here are some factors to consider when comparing the eyes and face of the two individuals:

Eyes:

The man in the first photo ("HJ Moolman") has fairly well-defined eyes with a more relaxed expression.
The man in the second photo ("Possible 1") appears to have narrower eyes with a more intense, focused look.

Facial Structure:

The man in "HJ Moolman" has a broader and more open facial structure, with a full mustache and a neatly trimmed beard.

The man in "Possible 1" has a narrower face with a gaunt appearance, and his facial hair seems to be less pronounced or somewhat scruffy, possibly indicating an older or more worn look.

Beard and Mustache:

"HJ Moolman" has a distinct, full beard and mustache combo.
The man in "Possible 1" appears to have facial hair, but it seems less groomed and patchier, making it harder to compare directly.

Overall, the two individuals do share some general similarities (facial hair and certain ruggedness), but the expressions, eye shapes, and facial structures seem different enough to suggest they may not be the same person.

Conclusion:

ChatGPT says "No".....Mrs Sturgy was right....