Sultan Barghash was the ruler of the Sultanate of Zanzibar from 1870 to 1888. He was the second son of Sultan Said bin Sultan and played a significant role in the development of Zanzibar as a trading hub. Under his leadership, the island became a center for the spice trade and the slave trade, which were vital to its economy. Barghash is also known for his efforts to modernize Zanzibar. He established a postal service, improved infrastructure, and promoted education. His reign was marked by both prosperity and challenges, including conflicts with European powers, particularly during the Anglo-Zanzibar War in 1896.