The independent Kingdom of Zululand was a major power in early 19th century southern Africa. By the late 19th century, European colonial powers came to dominate the region.

Battle of Isandhlwana, 1879

Source: Charles Edwin Fripp, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The British invaded Zululand in 1879, initiating the Anglo-Zulu War. Zulu forces had some early successes, particularly at the Battle of Isandlwana but were ultimately defeated at the Battle of Ulundi. The Kingdom was dissolved and its territory became part of the Colony of Natal.