The shortest war in history lasted only 38 minutes
The Anglo-Zanzibar War was fought between the United Kingdom and Zanzibar on August 27, 1896. Zanzibar surrendered after just 38 minutes, making it the shortest war in recorded history. The war was sparked by a dispute over who should be the ruler of Zanzibar, and the UK's desire to protect its interests in the region. The war is often cited as an example of the UK's military superiority and its ability to quickly assert its authority in distant territories.