The First Anglo-Zulu War took place in 1879 between the British Empire and the Zulu Kingdom. The conflict arose from British expansionist policies in southern Africa and tensions over land and sovereignty. The war began after the British issued an ultimatum to the Zulu, which was not accepted, leading to military action. The war is notable for several key battles, including the Battle of Isandlwana, where the Zulu achieved a significant victory against British forces. However, the British eventually regrouped and defeated the Zulu at the Battle of Ulundi, leading to the annexation of the Zulu Kingdom and significant changes in the region's political landscape.