The year 1659 was a pivotal period in the early history of the Dutch Cape Colony, marked by the first major armed conflict between European settlers and indigenous populations, as well as the establishment of the South African wine industry. During this time, the settlement at the Cape of Good Hope was under the administration of Jan van Riebeeck on behalf of the Dutch East India Company (VOC).
The First Khoikhoi-Dutch War
In May 1659, the First Khoikhoi-Dutch War commenced. The conflict was precipitated by the VOC’s decision to grant land to "Free Burghers" (former company employees) for permanent farming. This expansion encroached upon the traditional grazing lands and migratory routes of the Khoikhoi people, specifically the Goringhaiqua and Gorachouqua tribes.
Led by Doman, a Khoikhoi individual who had previously served as an interpreter for the Dutch in Batavia, the Khoikhoi launched a series of raids against the settlers' cattle and crops. Doman utilized his knowledge of European military limitations—such as the inefficiency of matchlock muskets in rainy weather—to coordinate attacks. In response, the VOC fortified the settlement, arming the settlers and constructing a series of defensive outposts. To further demarcate and protect the colony, Van Riebeeck ordered the planting of a dense hedge of wild almonds and thorny brambles, known as Van Riebeeck's Hedge, parts of which remain preserved today in the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.
Establishment of Viticulture
On February 2, 1659, Jan van Riebeeck recorded in his journal that wine was pressed for the first time from grapes grown at the Cape. The entry famously states, "Today, praise be to God, wine was made for the first time from Cape grapes."
Van Riebeeck had encouraged the planting of vineyards to provide fresh fruit and wine to VOC sailors to prevent scurvy during long voyages between Europe and the East Indies. The successful harvest of 1659 is recognized as the formal beginning of the South African wine industry, making it one of the oldest wine-producing regions outside of Europe.
Administrative and Colonial Developments
Under the leadership of Van Riebeeck, the VOC continued to consolidate its presence as a victualling station. The tensions of 1659 led to a shift in colonial policy from a mere maritime supply post toward a more fortified and territorial settlement. The conflict eventually reached a stalemate and concluded in 1660, though the precedent for land disputes and the displacement of indigenous groups was established during this period.
