Back in 1908, Barotseland had a problem. The tiny feudal monarchy in darkest Central Africa had become the favorite chomping ground of Zambezi River crocodiles, and finally the Litunga, Barotseland's proud king, was forced to ask the British government for help. Having boned up on modern weaponry, he requested a submarine to combat the river's savage saurians—and also to provide himself with a little sport. But Whitehall was not willing to proliferate dangerous weapons. The Litunga ended up with only a dress sword, a British admiral's uniform, and a vague feeling of frustration.
Last week crocodiles still infested the Zambezi...