The Shortest War in History: The Anglo-Zanzibar War of 1896
The Anglo-Zanzibar War of 1896 is recorded as the shortest war in history, lasting just 38 minutes. It began when Sultan Khalid bin Barghash refused to step down after seizing power without British approval. In response, British warships bombarded the palace, swiftly defeating his forces and installing a pro-British ruler. The brief conflict showcased the might of the British Empire and remains a powerful reminder of how quickly history can change.
A war that lasted just 38 minutes — yet changed history forever.
On the morning of August 27, 1896, the island of Zanzibar witnessed what would become the shortest war in recorded history. In just 38 minutes, the mighty British Empire clashed with the Sultanate of Zanzibar — and the outcome was both swift and devastating.
This brief but intense conflict reveals how power, politics, and imperial ambition can turn a diplomatic dispute into a lightning-fast war.
The Background — A Throne in Crisis
When Sultan Hamad bin Thuwaini, a pro-British ruler of Zanzibar, suddenly died on August 25, 1896, a crisis erupted. His cousin, Khalid bin Barghash, seized the palace and declared himself the new Sultan — without British approval.
Britain, determined to maintain influence in East Africa and protect its trade interests, issued an ultimatum demanding Khalid’s abdication. The Sultan refused — and fortified his palace with troops and artillery.
The War That Lasted Less Than an Hour
At exactly 9:00 a.m., the British deadline expired.
Moments later, Royal Navy warships stationed in the harbor opened fire on the palace. Within 38 minutes, the Sultan’s forces were defeated, the palace was in flames, and Khalid had fled to the German consulate seeking asylum.
By 9:40 a.m., the war was over.
The Aftermath — A Lesson in Power
The British quickly installed a new Sultan loyal to them — Hamoud bin Mohammed — solidifying their control over Zanzibar. The short war demonstrated Britain’s naval dominance and its ruthless efficiency in enforcing colonial rule.
Despite its brief duration, the Anglo-Zanzibar War remains a striking reminder of how quickly history can be written — and erased — by those in power.
Why This War Still Matters
Today, the Anglo-Zanzibar War is more than a historical curiosity; it’s a symbol of the colonial era’s geopolitical tensions.
It teaches us that history isn’t always written by long battles — sometimes, it’s decided in mere minutes.
Quick Facts
- Date: August 27, 1896
- Duration: 38–45 minutes
- Combatants: British Empire vs. Sultanate of Zanzibar
- Location: Zanzibar (modern-day Tanzania)
- Outcome: British victory, pro-British Sultan installed
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shortest war in history, Anglo Zanzibar War, Zanzibar history, 1896 war, British Empire, Sultan Khalid, colonial history, East Africa history, historical facts, Knightpen, History Portal
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