Zanzibar

• Zanzibar is an island of Tanzania, Africa located in the Indian ocean.
• It consists of many small islands and two large islands:
  • Unguja, and
  • Pemba island.
• It has an area of 637 sq mi (1,651 sq km).
• The main language is Swahili.
• Islam is the dominant religion on the island.

History of Zanzibar

• In the late 17th century, the island came under the control of Omani Arabs.
• In 1861, It was separated from Oman and became an independent sultanate.
• In 1890, the British proclaimed a protectorate over Zanzibar and Pemba islands.
• In 1963, the sultanate regained its independence.
• It then became a member of the Commonwealth.
• The sultanate was overthrown in 1964, and a republic was established.
• It then joined with Tanganyika to form the Republic of Tanzania.

Interesting Facts About Zanzibar

• The shortest war in history was fought between the United States and Zanzibar in 1896.
  • It lasts only 45 minutes.
• The archipelago is widely known as the “spice island” of Africa.
• The island has its own leopard species known as “Zanzibar Leopard”.
  • They are native to the island.
• It is also home to some other unique species like the red colobus monkey, etc
• It has the largest number of carved doors in East Africa.

Source

• Britannica
• African Adventures