As an expert in military history, I can provide a detailed account of the conflict that is often cited as the shortest in history: the Anglo-Zanzibar War. This war was a military confrontation between the United Kingdom and the Zanzibar Sultanate that took place on the 27th of August, 1896. The duration of the conflict, which is estimated to have lasted between 38 to 45 minutes, has led to its recognition as the shortest recorded war in history.

The context of the war was rooted in the geopolitical struggles of the late 19th century, a period marked by the "Scramble for Africa," where European powers were vying for control over African territories. Zanzibar, an island off the east coast of Africa, was a strategic location with significant influence over the trade routes of the Indian Ocean.

The immediate cause of the war was a dispute over the succession of the Zanzibari Sultan. The British favored one candidate, while the Germans supported another. When the favored candidate of the British, Hamad bin Thuwaini, was succeeded by Khalid bin Barghash, who was backed by the Germans, it led to a rapid escalation of tensions.

The British, who had a naval presence in the region, issued an ultimatum to Khalid bin Barghash to abdicate. When he refused, the British warships opened fire on the palace in Zanzibar. The Zanzibari forces were ill-equipped to handle the British naval artillery, and the conflict ended swiftly with the British victory.

The outcome of the war had significant implications. It resulted in the reinstatement of Hamad bin Thuwaini as Sultan, albeit as a British puppet. The war also solidified British influence over the region and marked a further step in the consolidation of British colonial power in Africa.

The Anglo-Zanzibar War serves as a historical example of how quickly a conflict can escalate and be resolved, particularly when there is a significant disparity in military power between the opposing forces. It also highlights the importance of strategic locations and the lengths to which nations will go to secure them.

In conclusion, the Anglo-Zanzibar War, with its brief but intense duration, stands as a unique event in the annals of military history. It is a testament to the volatility of international relations and the rapid changes that can occur in the balance of power.

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Anglo-Zanzibar War. 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.read more >>