When a War Lasted 335 Years — Without a Single Shot Fired

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Some wars are short and brutal. Others, like the 335 Years’ War, are long... and utterly absurd.

This “conflict” began in 1651, during the English Civil War, when the Netherlands aligned with the Parliamentarians against the Royalists, who had retreated to the Isles of Scilly (off England’s southwest coast). In a formal gesture of solidarity, the Dutch declared war on the Scilly Isles.


But here’s the twist: no battles occurred, no troops landed, and no cannonballs were fired. The Dutch navy eventually sailed away, and everyone simply forgot that war had been declared.

For centuries, the "war" remained on the books — technically unresolved. It wasn’t until 1986 that a local historian discovered the forgotten conflict and contacted the Dutch embassy. A ceremonial peace treaty was finally signed, officially ending the war 335 years later.

It may be the longest war in history — and the most peaceful one.



FAQ
Was it a real war?
Legally, yes — but there were no battles, casualties, or even hostile action.
Why did it last so long?
It was forgotten! No one remembered to end it formally until 1986.
Is this the longest war ever?
Technically yes — though many don’t consider it a “real” war.