Battle of Bembezi

Battle of Bembezi
Part of First Matabele War
Date1 November 1893
LocationBembezi, Zimbabwe
Result Decisive British victory
Belligerents
British South Africa Company Ndebele Kingdom
Commanders and leaders
Major Patrick William Forbes King Lobengula
Units involved
around 700 British soldiers 80,000 spearmen 20,000 riflemen
Casualties and losses
Unknown 2,500 Ndebele

The Battle of Bembezi, that took place on November 1, 1893, was the most decisive battle won by the British in the First Matabele War of 1893.

Battle

Though thoroughly outnumbered, (100,000 men to 700), the British Maxim guns proved superior to Ndebele numbers. After heavy losses, the Ndebele began retreat. Roughly 2,500 Ndebele were killed.

Consequences

After the stunning defeat, King Lobengula fled the battle; the end of the First Matabele War was near.

References

  1. http://www.sahistory.org.za/dated-event/decisive-battle-bembesi-bembasi-fought-first-matabele-war-ndebele-zimbabwe
  2. http://zimfieldguide.com/matabeleland-south/battle-bembesi-called-egodade-ndebele
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