22 January - The Battle of Isandlwana

 

The Battle of Isandlwana took place on 22 January 1879, during the Anglo-Zulu War. It was a significant conflict between British forces and the Zulu Kingdom in Southern Africa. The battle occurred at Isandlwana, a mountain in Zululand (now part of South Africa).

In this engagement, a British force, commanded by Colonel Henry Pulleine, faced a well-coordinated Zulu army led by Ntshingwayo kaMahole and Mavumengwana. The Zulu forces overwhelmed the British troops, resulting in a decisive Zulu victory. The British suffered heavy casualties, and the defeat was a shock to the British Empire.

The Battle of Isandlwana was part of the larger Anglo-Zulu War, which unfolded between the British Empire and the Zulu Kingdom in 1879. The outcome of Isandlwana had significant consequences, leading to subsequent battles and campaigns during the conflict. The Battle of Rorke's Drift, which occurred later the same day, became another notable engagement in the Anglo-Zulu War.