Battle of Behobeho facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Battle of Behobeho |
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| Part of East African Campaign | |||||||
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| Belligerents | |||||||
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 British Empire |
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| Commanders and leaders | |||||||
 Capt. Ernst Otto |
 Capt. Frederick Selous † |
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The Battle of Behobeho was a fight that happened during the East African Campaign of World War I. It took place in what was then called German East Africa, which is now part of Tanzania. This battle is remembered for the death of a famous British explorer and soldier, Captain Frederick Selous.
Contents
Why the Battle Happened
World War I was a huge global conflict. One part of it was fought in East Africa. Here, British and German forces clashed. The British wanted to take control of German colonies in Africa.
The British Advance
By September 1916, British forces had captured Dar es Salaam. This was the main city on the coast of German East Africa. Their leader, General Jan Smuts, then stopped the army's advance. Many soldiers had become very sick with malaria, a serious disease spread by mosquitoes.
After a short break, the British army started moving again. They pushed deeper into the country. Their goal was to find and defeat the German forces.
The Battle Unfolds
In early January 1917, a special group of British soldiers moved forward. This was the 25th Frontiersmen Battalion. It was led by Captain Frederick Selous. He was a very famous hunter and explorer. His unit was moving along the Rufiji River.
A Surprise Encounter
On January 3rd, British scouts were ahead of the main group. They saw a line of German soldiers on the road. A small fight, called a skirmish, quickly started. The British and German soldiers began shooting at each other.
The Death of a Hero
During this fight, Captain Frederick Selous was using binoculars. He was trying to find where the enemy soldiers were hiding. As he looked up, a German marksman shot him. Captain Selous died during the battle.
Because Selous was so famous, his death was a big event. It is said that the German commander, Paul Emil von Lettow-Vorbeck, even sent a letter. This letter expressed his sadness to the British after Selous died. This shows that even in war, there could be respect between enemies.
What Happened Next
The Battle of Behobeho itself did not have a clear winner. It is called "inconclusive." This means neither side fully won or lost. However, it was a notable event because of Captain Selous's death. The war in East Africa continued for many more months after this battle.
