Battleground Archives

The shortest war in recorded history is the Anglo-Zanzibar War, which took place on August 27, 1896. This conflict lasted between 38 and 45 minutes.

Background

The war’s roots lay in the colonial interests and political dynamics of East Africa during the late 19th century. Zanzibar, an island off the coast of East Africa, had become a British protectorate in 1890, under an agreement that also recognized the sultan’s authority over the island.

The immediate cause of the war was the death of Sultan Hamad bin Thuwaini on August 25, 1896, who had been cooperative with British interests. His successor, Sultan Khalid bin Barghash, ascended to the throne without British approval. The British authorities favored Hamoud bin Mohammed, who they believed would be more compliant with their interests.

Sultan Hamad bin Thuwaini was the Sultan of Zanzibar from 1893 until his death in 1896. Born in 1857, he was a member of the Al-Busaid dynasty. During his reign, he maintained a close relationship with the British. His sudden death on August 25, 1896, under mysterious circumstances, led to the brief and turbulent rule of his cousin.

Sultan Khalid bin Barghash was a significant historical figure in the late 19th century. He was born in 1874 and died in 1927. Khalid bin Barghash was a member of the Al-Busaid dynasty, which had ruled Zanzibar since the early 19th century.

Sultan Hamoud bin Mohammed was the Sultan of Zanzibar from 1896 to 1902. Born in 1853, he was also a member of the Al-Busaid dynasty. His rule is notable for the abolition of slavery in Zanzibar, influenced by British pressure, which significantly changed the social and economic landscape of the region. Sultan Hamoud's reign helped to solidify British influence in Zanzibar and marked a period of relative stability and modernization.

The Conflict

The British consul, Basil Cave, issued an ultimatum to Khalid bin Barghash to step down and leave the palace by 9:00 AM on August 27, 1896. Khalid refused and instead assembled a force of around 2,800 men, including palace guards and civilians.

At precisely 9:02 AM, after the ultimatum expired, British naval vessels, including HMS Thrush, HMS Sparrow, and HMS St George, opened fire on the palace. The shelling quickly overwhelmed Khalid’s forces, which had limited means of defense, such as a few artillery pieces and machine guns. The bombardment lasted between 38 and 45 minutes. By 9:40 AM, the palace was heavily damaged, and Khalid’s forces had either surrendered or fled. Sultan Khalid took refuge in the German consulate, escaping capture.

Aftermath

Hamoud bin Mohammed was installed as the Sultan of Zanzibar, under British supervision, solidifying British influence over the island. The conflict resulted in approximately 500 Zanzibari casualties, mostly from the bombardment. British forces reported only one wounded sailor.

The Anglo-Zanzibar War is an example of the overwhelming military superiority of colonial powers over local forces during the age of imperialism. It underscores the rapid and decisive nature of 19th-century naval warfare, where advanced technology and firepower could swiftly determine the outcome of conflicts.

This brief but dramatic conflict left a lasting mark on the history of Zanzibar and is remembered for its brevity and the clear demonstration of British military and political dominance in the region during that era.