The leader of the Zulu during the Anglo-Zulu War was King Cetshwayo. He ascended to the throne in 1872 and faced the British Empire’s growing ambition in Southern Africa. The war began in January 1879 when British forces invaded Zululand. Despite initial Zulu victories, including the famous battle at Isandlwana, King Cetshwayo and his forces eventually faced overwhelming British military power. The war led to the eventual defeat of the Zulu Kingdom, with Cetshwayo being captured and exiled. His leadership became emblematic of Zulu resistance against colonial imperialism and remains a significant part of South African history.