Battle of Kano (1903) Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids

Battle of Kano

Part of the Pacification of Northern Nigeria

Date	1903
Location	Kano, Northern Nigeria
Result	British Victory

Belligerents

Sokoto Caliphate

Kano Emirate

British Empire

Protectorate of Northern Nigeria

Commanders and leaders

Madakin Kano

Thomas Morland

Strength

300 cavalry.

100 cavalry,
800 Infantry (rank and file).

Casualties and losses

Unknown

70 dead and wounded

The Battle of Kano was an important fight in 1903. It happened between the British Empire and the Kano Emirate. The Kano Emirate was part of the large Sokoto Caliphate. This battle took place in what is now Northern Nigeria. It was a key moment in the British effort to take control of the region.

Why the Battle Happened
The Battle Itself
What Happened Next
Gallery
See also

Why the Battle Happened

In 1899, a British leader named Lord Lugard announced something important. He said that a large part of the Sokoto Caliphate was now a British protectorate. This meant the British claimed control over it.

The British tried to talk to the Caliph, who was the ruler. They wanted him to accept their rule peacefully. But these talks did not work out. So, in 1900, the British decided to use their army. They launched a military campaign to take over the Caliphate.

In January 1903, a British army group started its journey. This group was called the Kano-Sokoto Expedition. It was led by Colonel Morland. The force included British officers and 800 African soldiers. Most of them were infantry, meaning they fought on foot. They also had some mounted soldiers and gunners. The army brought four special mountain guns. These guns could be taken apart and carried by porters. They also had six machine guns.

The Battle Itself

The British army reached the city of Kano. There was some fighting outside the city walls first. But the British managed to get past the defenses. At that time, Kano was not well protected. The Emir, who was the city's ruler, was away. He had taken most of his cavalry (soldiers on horseback) with him. They were on a campaign in Sokoto.

A local noble named Madakin Kano tried to gather soldiers. He wanted to defend the city with any troops left. Despite his efforts, the British army was very strong. They fought hard and successfully took control of Kano. During this battle, the British army had about 70 soldiers who were either killed or wounded.

What Happened Next

The news that the British had captured Kano spread quickly. This happened in February 1903. When the Emir's cavalry heard about it, they started a long march. They wanted to take back their city. This led to another very important battle. It was called the Battle of Kwatarkwashi.