The Shortest War in History Lasted 38 Minutes
A British warship firing at a small palace on a tropical coastline with smoke rising from the bombardment
The Anglo-Zanzibar War of 1896 lasted between 38 and 45 minutes. After the Sultan of Zanzibar refused a British ultimatum to stand down, the Royal Navy bombarded the palace, sinking the royal yacht and ending resistance almost immediately.
Why Itβs Interesting
It starkly illustrates the overwhelming military asymmetry of the colonial era. One side had a navy; the other had a wooden palace. The brevity of the conflict makes it a grim symbol of how imperial power operated.
You Might Also Like
About 7 Percent of All Humans Who Ever Lived Are Alive Right Now
Approximately 109 billion humans have ever been born throughout history. With nearly 8 billion alive today, the living represent about 7 percent of all humans who have ever existed.
DiscoveryRussia Has 11 Time Zones but Used to Have Only Nine
Russia spans 11 time zones, more than any other country. In 2010 Dmitry Medvedev reduced them to nine to boost economic efficiency, but the change was so unpopular it was reversed in 2014.
DiscoveryNauru Is the Only Country in the World with No Official Capital
The tiny Pacific island nation of Nauru has no official capital city. Government offices are scattered across the island, mainly in the Yaren district, but no capital has ever been formally designated.
DiscoveryLesotho Is the Only Country Entirely Above 1,000 Meters
Every point in Lesotho sits above 1,000 meters in elevation, making it the highest low point of any country on Earth. Its lowest elevation is 1,400 meters β higher than the highest point in many nations.
Discover more like this
Get the best finds delivered to your inbox every morning.
No spam, ever. Unsubscribe anytime.