Conversation so far:
How did the Boer war start?
During the early stages of the South African War 1899-1902, the British Army suffered defeats at the hands of the Boer Commandos.
What were the Boer Commandos?
Boer Commandos, composed of men who were first-class shots and good horsemen.
Who were the sharpshooters?
volunteers who could both ride and shoot well.

Question: What were the sharpshooters used for?
Self-contained rewrite: What were the sharpshooters used for in the Boer war?