Maxim machine-guns of the Gold Coast Regiment, 1909 (c)

Photograph, West Africa, 1909 (c).

African soldiers open fire with their Maxim guns as a British officer looks on. The soldiers are also armed with Lee Enfield rifles. The Maxim was first used by Britain's colonial forces in the 1st Matabele War in 1893-1894. In one engagement, 50 soldiers fought off 5000 warriors with just four Maxim guns. The gun played an important role in the European colonisation of Africa in the late 19th century.

From an album of 214 photographs collected by Colonel O M Harris (DSO), Royal Artillery.