5. The Battle of Isandlwana (1879)
In 1879, during the Anglo-Zulu War, British forces under Lord Chelmsford advanced into Zululand, leaving a portion of their troops unfortified at Isandlwana. A Zulu army of approximately 20,000 warriors, commanded by Ntshingwayo kaMahole Khoza, launched a surprise attack, overwhelming the British camp. The British suffered a devastating defeat, with over 1,300 soldiers killed, including 52 officers. This loss shocked the British Empire and challenged perceptions of invincibility (britannica.com).
