Battle of Mlali facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Mlali
Part of East African Campaign
Date 24 August 1916 Location Mlali, German East Africa Result British victory
Belligerents
German Empire German East Africa	British Empire
Commanders and leaders
Paul von Lettow-Vorbeck	General Jan Smuts
Strength
unknown	3 divisions

The Battle of Mlali was an important fight during World War I. It took place on August 24, 1916, in a region known as German East Africa. Today, this area is part of the country of Tanzania. This battle was part of a larger series of conflicts called the East African Campaign. The British forces won this particular battle.

What Was the Battle of Mlali?

The Battle of Mlali was a clash between British and German forces. It happened in the middle of World War I. The British wanted to take control of important areas in German East Africa. They also aimed to stop the German army from using their vital railway lines.

The East African Campaign

The East African Campaign was a series of battles. These fights happened in East Africa during World War I. The main countries involved were the British Empire and the German Empire. Both sides wanted to control the valuable lands and resources in this part of Africa.

Who Fought in the Battle?

The main commanders in the Battle of Mlali were:

• For the British: General Jan Christiaan Smuts. He led three large groups of soldiers called divisions.
• For the Germans: Commander Paul von Lettow-Vorbeck. He was a skilled German leader.

General Smuts led his troops south from Kenya. Their goal was to enter the German colony of Tanganyika.

What Happened at Mlali?

German scouts quickly told Commander Lettow-Vorbeck about the British movement. He sent Captain Otto to find out more. The German soldiers were outnumbered by the British. Because of this, they had to pull back.

There were many smaller fights, called skirmishes. But the British never managed to force the main German army into a big battle. Even so, the British did capture several important places. These places were used by the Germans to store supplies. Losing these supply points was a big blow to the German forces.

A Heroic Act

During the battle, a brave soldier named Captain William Bloomfield showed great courage. He was part of the 2nd South African Mounted Brigade. Captain Bloomfield rescued a wounded corporal. He did this even though it was very dangerous for him. For his bravery, he received the Victoria Cross. This is the highest award for bravery in the British military.

Why Was This Battle Important?

The main goal for the British was to destroy the German troops. They did not fully achieve this goal. The German army managed to avoid a direct, large-scale fight. However, the British High Command still saw the Battle of Mlali as a victory. This was because they had forced the Germans to retreat. They also captured important supply locations. This helped the British gain more control in the region.