🕰️ The Little Story: The shortest war in contemporary history (1896) ⏳⚔️
On August 27, 1896 , a unique conflict broke out between the United Kingdom and the Sultanate of Zanzibar. This fight, which went down in history as the shortest war on record , lasted just 38 minutes . Here's how this astonishing event unfolded.
A context of colonial tensions
In the late 19th century, Zanzibar was a strategic island under strong British influence. The spice trade and its geographical position made it a key point for colonial ambitions. When Sultan Hamad bin Thuwaini, who had good relations with the British, died, his nephew Khalid bin Barghash seized power without consulting London.
This unilateral takeover was seen as a threat by the British, who were keen to maintain control of the region. Khalid, refusing to comply with British demands, reinforced his palace with several hundred armed men.
A lightning clash
On the morning of 27 August 1896 , after an ultimatum was rejected, the British decided to act. At 9:02 a.m. , British naval vessels stationed in Zanzibar harbour began bombarding the palace. Within 40 minutes, the building was badly damaged, and Khalid fled through a back door to seek refuge in a foreign consulate. By 9:40 a.m. , the war was officially over.
The results of this express war are eloquent: around 500 dead or wounded on the Zanzibari side and only one slightly wounded British. This disproportion illustrates the enormous gap in power between the two camps.
The political consequences
Following this defeat, the Sultanate of Zanzibar became a British protectorate, with a sultan sympathetic to British interests placed on the throne. Although brief, this confrontation highlights the brutality of imperialism and the way in which the great powers imposed their authority.
An unusual record
At 38 minutes, this conflict still holds the record for the shortest war in contemporary history. It is often cited as an example of the military effectiveness of colonial powers and the limits of resistance of small states against these empires.
💬 Did you know that this lightning conflict made history? Discover other fascinating anecdotes on our blog.
The Sultan's Palace after the Bombardment, By Richard Dorsey Mohun (1865-1915) — Public domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=662260
