Part 6: The Decline of the Sultanate The Last Light of Zanzibar

The decline of the Sultanate of Zanzibar began in the late 19th century, when the British Empire began to exert its influence in the region. The British had already established a presence in the region, but the Sultanate had managed to remain independent until then. However, the Sultanate was unable to resist the British and was eventually forced to accept a protectorate status.

The British influence in the region led to the decline of the Sultanate. The British imposed their own laws and regulations, which weakened the power of the Sultanate. The British also began to interfere in the internal affairs of the Sultanate, which further weakened its authority.

The decline of the Sultanate was also accelerated by internal strife. The Sultanate was divided into two factions, the pro-British faction and the anti-British faction. The pro-British faction was led by the Sultan, who was supported by the British. The anti-British faction was led by the local aristocracy, who were opposed to the British presence in the region.

The internal strife in the Sultanate eventually led to its downfall. In 1896, the British declared the Sultanate to be a British protectorate. This effectively ended the Sultanate's independence and marked the beginning of its decline.

The decline of the Sultanate was further accelerated by the rise of European colonialism in the region. The Europeans began to take control of the region and the Sultanate was unable to resist them. By the early 20th century, the Sultanate had become a mere shadow of its former self.

The last light of the Sultanate of Zanzibar finally faded in the early 20th century. The Sultanate was officially abolished in 1911 and the region was annexed by the British Empire. The Sultanate of Zanzibar was no more, and the last light of Zanzibar had been extinguished.