The Shortest War in History Was Fought Over a Cat - Apparently.
In 1896, the British and Zanzibar forces clashed in the shortest war in recorded history, lasting only 38 minutes. The conflict began when Zanzibar's pro-British Sultan Hamad bin Thuwaini died, and the opposing forces disagreed on a successor. The British, who had been backing one candidate, opened fire on Zanzibar's military. After 38 minutes, Zanzibar surrendered, and the war was over. This bizarre conflict was sparked by a disputed succession, but its outcome was a decisive British victory.