The shortest war on record took place in 1896 when Zanzibar surrendered to Britain after 38 minutes.
The longest was the so-called 100-years war between Britain and France. It actually lasted 116 years, ending in 1453.
It was during the 100-years war that direct taxation on income was introduced, a British invention designed to finance the war with France.
Since 1495, no 25-year period has been without war.
