The final battle in the Zulu war of 1879 Ulundi was the decisive action that finally broke the military power of the Zulus. Facing the estimated 20,000 Zulus were 4,166 British troops , 958 natives and 2 gatling machine guns. Lord Chelmsfords flying column crossed the White Mfolozi river and formed up in a large square formation outside the Zulu chief King Cetshwayo's homestead. The Zulus made a desperate and valiant last stand but it was hopeless and within half an hour their attacks had failed and British lancers chased the stragglers from the field. About 1500 Zulus lay dead with the same number wounded, Cetshwayo was captured on the 8th August 1879 ending the Zulu War.