When we think of wars from the 19th century, we often imagine protracted conflicts that dragged on for months or even years. However, one war was so brief that it lasted less time than the first half of a football match (or soccer, for our American friends). The Anglo-Zanzibar War of 1896 holds the record as the shortest war in history, and it’s a fascinating tale of imperial power, naval might, and rapid resolution.
Setting the Scene
Zanzibar, an island off the coast of East Africa in the Indian Ocean, has a rich history of trade and conflict. Today, it’s part of the Republic of Tanzania, but in the 19th century, Zanzibar was a powerful Sultanate with territories stretching along the coast of what is now Tanzania. Its strategic location made it a valuable asset for European empires, particularly the British, who had been steadily increasing their influence in the region.
Zanzibar had long been a major hub for the slave trade, which accounted for a significant portion of the Sultanate’s income. However, British efforts to abolish slavery globally put them on a collision course with Zanzibar. Over several decades, the British imposed treaties and restrictions that curtailed the slave trade, culminating in the closure of Zanzibar’s infamous Stone Town slave market in 1873. Despite these measures, the island remained semi-independent, and its leadership continued to be influenced by British interests.
The Build-Up to War
In the late 19th century, European powers were carving up Africa, and tensions between the British and the Germans were high. Zanzibar, strategically located and wealthy, was a prize that neither side wanted to see fall into the other’s hands. The Heligoland-Zanzibar Treaty of 1890, which saw Britain cede the North Sea island of Heligoland to Germany in exchange for recognition of their protectorate over Zanzibar, temporarily eased tensions. However, the uneasy peace wouldn’t last.
When Sultan Hamad bin Thuwaini, a British ally, died suddenly on August 25, 1896, his cousin Sayyid Khalid bin Barghash seized the throne without British approval, a direct violation of the treaty. Khalid’s bold move sparked a diplomatic crisis. The British Consul, Sir Basil Cave, warned Khalid to reconsider his actions, but Khalid, supported by a force of nearly 3,000 men, decided to hold his ground.
The Forces Assemble
On the British side, the response was swift and decisive. Within hours, a flotilla of Royal Navy ships began to gather in Zanzibar’s harbour. HMS Philomel, HMS Thrush, and HMS Sparrow, all armed with modern naval guns, were soon joined by the more powerful HMS Racoon and the flagship HMS St George, commanded by Rear Admiral Sir Harry Rawson. In total, the British had assembled a formidable force with the firepower to devastate the Sultan’s defenses.
Khalid’s forces, on the other hand, were less impressive. His troops were a mix of civilians and soldiers, armed with outdated weapons, including a few modern German cannons, a Gatling gun, and the aging steam frigate HHS Glasgow, which was a shadow of its Royal Navy namesake. Despite this, Khalid was determined to resist.
The War Begins… and Ends
At 9:00 AM on August 27, 1896, the British ultimatum expired. With no sign of surrender from Khalid, Rear Admiral Rawson gave the order to open fire. The British naval guns quickly found their mark. HMS Thrush’s first shot destroyed one of Khalid’s cannons, setting the tone for the brief conflict. The bombardment was intense and precise, and within minutes, the HHS Glasgow was sunk, and the Sultan’s palace was in ruins.
Khalid’s forces were overwhelmed. In just 38 minutes, the war was over. The British had fired hundreds of shells, killing around 500 of Khalid’s men. In stark contrast, British casualties were minimal—only one sailor was wounded. Khalid himself fled to the German consulate, where he was granted asylum and later smuggled out of Zanzibar, eventually ending up in German East Africa.
Aftermath and Legacy
The Anglo-Zanzibar War may have been brief, but its impact was significant. The British solidified their control over Zanzibar, reducing the Sultan’s power and eventually abolishing slavery on the island. The war also marked the end of an era for gunboat diplomacy. With the rise of larger, more powerful warships, the days of using small gunboats to project imperial power were numbered.
In the grand tapestry of history, the Anglo-Zanzibar War is a curious footnote—a reminder of the vast reach of the British Empire and the sometimes absurd nature of imperial conflicts. It’s a story of overwhelming force, swift resolution, and the enduring influence of the Royal Navy. While it may not have been a major campaign, the shortest war in history is a fascinating example of gunboat diplomacy at its most decisive.
Further Reading
Thanks to Dr Chris Brice for researching and co-writing this episode. You can find his books here – https://amzn.to/4cx1H0e.
Angus Konstam British Gunboats of Victoria’s Empire (Osprey, 2022) – https://amzn.to/3yZaWsc
Phillip J Haythornthwaite The Colonial Wars Source Book (Caxton, 2000)- https://amzn.to/3X952g2
Ian Hernon Britain’s Forgotten Wars: Colonial campaigns of the 19th century (Sutton, 2003) – https://amzn.to/3Z3PXz2
Kevin Patience Zanzibar and the Shortest War in history (1994) – https://amzn.to/3AHzE0O
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