Gm

On this day & on only this day - took place the shortest war in history, 27th August 1896. Great Britain & Zanzibar went at it for 40 minutes. It started when one (Pro-British) Sultan died and the successor was not to London's liking. At the time Zanzibar was sided by German East Africa. After diplolmatic pressure of the ink failed, it was time to send the Gunboats. During the night one consul noted 'the silence was appalling' In the morning the British raised signal battle would shortly commence. The Sultan stood firm, five minutes later at 09.02.00 hrs the bombardment of the wooden pallace began. By 09.40.00 hrs the royal palace was ablaze, it's remaining occupants surrendered, the Sultan slipped off to German East Africa & the British established a rival , puppet government.

Casualties ~501