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Wars are often associated with prolonged battles, strategic maneuvers, and years of conflict, but the Anglo-Zanzibar War of 1896 stands out as the shortest war in recorded history, lasting between 38 and 45 minutes. This brief yet impactful confrontation took place on August 27, 1896, when the British Empire decisively crushed the forces of the Sultan of Zanzibar, showcasing their overwhelming naval power.
The Conflict’s Origins
Zanzibar, an island off the coast of present-day Tanzania, was a British protectorate in the late 19th century. When the pro-British Sultan Hamid bin Thuwaini died suddenly on August 25, 1896, his successor, Khalid bin Barghash, took control of the palace without British approval. The British, who favored another candidate, saw this as an act of defiance.
The British issued an ultimatum, demanding Khalid step down. When he refused, they responded with military force.
A War That Lasted Less Than an Hour
At 9:02 AM on August 27, 1896, the British navy opened fire on the Sultan’s palace, quickly overwhelming his defenses. The Sultan’s small army, consisting of about 2,800 men, was poorly equipped, with outdated weapons compared to the British forces. Within minutes, the palace was heavily damaged, and the Sultan’s artillery was destroyed.
By 9:40 AM, the war was over. Khalid bin Barghash had fled, and the British declared victory.
The Aftermath
- The British installed a new, pro-British Sultan, Hamoud bin Mohammed.
- Around 500 Zanzibari troops and civilians were wounded or killed, while the British suffered only one minor injury.
- The war reinforced British dominance in the region and became a symbol of the vast military imbalance between European colonial powers and their territories.
A Conflict Unlike Any Other
The Anglo-Zanzibar War remains a fascinating historical curiosity—a war shorter than most modern TV episodes. Despite its brevity, it had lasting effects on Zanzibar’s political future, cementing British control over the island until it gained independence in 1963.