What is the shortest battle in history?

As a historian with a keen interest in military conflicts, I've often been intrigued by the brevity and intensity of certain battles that have shaped the course of history. One such battle that stands out for its incredibly short duration is the Anglo-Zanzibar War. This conflict, fought between the United Kingdom and the Zanzibar Sultanate on the 27th of August, 1896, is often cited as the shortest war in recorded history, lasting a mere 38 to 45 minutes. The Anglo-Zanzibar War was a pivotal moment in the colonial era, a time when European powers were expanding their influence across the globe. The war was a result of a power struggle following the death of the Sultan of Zanzibar, Hamad bin Thuwaini. The British, who had significant interests in the region due to its strategic location for trade and influence, were not pleased with the succession of Hamoud bin Mohammed, who was seen as less favorable to their interests. The British had a naval presence in the region, with the HMS Barfleur stationed off the coast of Zanzibar. When the negotiations failed, and it became clear that a conflict was imminent, the British issued an ultimatum to the new Sultan, demanding that he surrender. The Sultan, however, chose to resist, and the war began with the British opening fire on the Sultan's palace. The Zanzibar Sultanate's forces were no match for the superior British naval power. The British used their heavy artillery and naval guns to bombard the palace and the city, causing significant damage and leading to a swift end to the conflict. The war ended with the surrender of the Sultan's forces and the installation of a new Sultan who was more amenable to British interests. The Anglo-Zanzibar War is a fascinating case study in the dynamics of colonial power and the lengths to which nations would go to protect their interests. It also serves as a reminder of the devastating impact that modern weaponry can have, especially when pitted against less technologically advanced forces. The brevity of the war is often attributed to the asymmetrical nature of the conflict, with the British forces having a significant technological advantage. The Zanzibar Sultanate, despite its local knowledge and numerical superiority, was unable to withstand the onslaught of British firepower. In conclusion, the Anglo-Zanzibar War stands as a testament to the power of modern military technology and the strategic importance of quick, decisive action in warfare. Its status as the shortest recorded war in history is a reflection of the overwhelming force that the British were able to bring to bear in a very short period of time.

The Anglo-Zanzibar War was a military conflict fought between the United Kingdom and the Zanzibar Sultanate on 27 August 1896. The conflict lasted between 38 and 45 minutes, marking it as the shortest recorded war in history.