Final answer:
Britain colonized South Africa beginning in 1806 with the takeover of the Dutch Cape Colony, leading to significant British immigration and the displacement of Dutch settlers. The discovery of diamonds and gold prompted further British colonization through the Boer Wars, ultimately resulting in the Union of South Africa in 1910, under a system that maintained a white power structure and later apartheid.
Step-by-step explanation:
Britain first gained a foothold in South Africa in 1806 when it took formal control over the Dutch Cape Colony. This marked the beginning of British colonization of the region. South Africa was conceived as a settler colony, and British colonization escalated with the arrival of British immigrants. This caused the Dutch settlers, known as Afrikaners or Boers, to embark on the Great Trek in 1836, which led to the establishment of the independent republics of the Transvaal Republic and the Orange Free State.
The discovery of diamonds and gold further intensified Britain's involvement, leading to the Boer Wars (1880-81 and 1899-1902), which were fought for control over South Africa's mineral wealth. After the Boer Wars, Britain consolidated its power by annexing the Transvaal Republic and the Orange Free State. The Union of South Africa was then created in 1910, unifying these territories under British dominion while maintaining a white power structure.
The struggle for power continued through the 20th century, culminating in the establishment of the apartheid system in 1948, a policy of racial segregation and discrimination against nonwhite populations. The colonial rule of Britain and its impact on South African history are profound and enduring.