Pack your desert boots and dust off your military maps, time travellers, because we’re heading to Khartoum, Sudan, on January 26, 1885, to witness one of the most dramatic and tragic events of the Victorian era: the death of General Charles “Chinese” Gordon and the fall of Khartoum. A hero to some and a controversial figure to others, Gordon’s stand against the Mahdi’s forces in Sudan captured the Victorian imagination and remains a key moment in British imperial history.
This city break promises a front-row seat to a moment that shaped colonial politics, set against the stark beauty of the Nile’s confluence and the raw energy of a besieged city.
Why Visit Khartoum in January 1885?
By January 1885, Khartoum is a city on the brink. For nearly a year, General Gordon has held the city against the forces of the Mahdist uprising, a movement led by Muhammad Ahmad, the self-proclaimed Mahdi (“guided one”). With supplies dwindling and British relief forces still miles away, the siege is reaching its dramatic conclusion.
Khartoum at this moment is both a military stronghold and a crucible of imperial ambition, religious fervour, and human resilience. For history buffs, it’s a chance to see the endgame of one of the 19th century’s most fascinating power struggles.
Your Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring Khartoum Under Siege
Start your journey at Gordon’s Palace, the nerve centre of British operations in Khartoum. Perched near the confluence of the Blue Nile and White Nile, the palace is both a strategic command post and the place where Gordon spends his final days. Marvel at the fortifications hastily built by Gordon and his troops and note the tension in the air as the Mahdi’s forces close in.
Next, visit the city’s walls and trenches, where Sudanese and Egyptian defenders desperately hold off the Mahdi’s soldiers. These defences, though valiantly manned, are visibly strained—a testament to the siege’s gruelling toll.
For lunch, try ful medames, a traditional Sudanese dish of stewed fava beans, served with flatbread. It’s a modest but hearty meal, a taste of the city’s resilience under pressure.
Day 2: Witnessing the Fall
Rise early to watch the Mahdist forces as they prepare for their final assault. With thousands of dervishes (warriors of the Mahdi’s army) swarming towards the city, the attack is a chaotic and awe-inspiring sight. Their sheer numbers overwhelm the exhausted defenders, and the city’s walls fall.
As the Mahdists breach Gordon’s Palace, witness the tragic end of the British commander. Gordon, a figure both lionised and criticised, is killed by a dervish spear, marking the fall of Khartoum and a defining moment in the British imperial narrative.
End your day at the confluence of the Niles, reflecting on the ebb and flow of history as two mighty rivers meet. It’s a poignant setting to consider the legacies of Gordon, the Mahdi, and the people caught in their clash.
Who Was General Charles Gordon?
Charles George Gordon (1833–1885) was a British officer and adventurer whose exploits earned him fame—and controversy—across the globe. Nicknamed “Chinese Gordon” for his role in the Taiping Rebellion, he was a deeply religious man with a flair for defying authority.
In 1884, Gordon was sent to Sudan to evacuate Egyptian forces amid the Mahdist uprising. Instead of retreating, he chose to stay and defend Khartoum, a decision that turned him into a Victorian martyr. While some hailed his bravery, others criticised his refusal to leave, which ultimately led to his death and the loss of Khartoum.
Why the Fall of Khartoum Matters
The fall of Khartoum marked a significant moment in the history of British imperialism. It exposed the limits of British power in the face of local resistance and highlighted the challenges of governing far-flung territories. The Mahdist victory also cemented the Mahdi’s control over Sudan, shaping the region’s political landscape for years to come.
For Victorian Britain, Gordon’s death became a symbol of heroic sacrifice—and a rallying cry for revenge. The incident spurred military campaigns to reclaim Sudan, culminating in the Battle of Omdurman in 1898, when the British decisively defeated Mahdist forces.
Travel Tips for 1885 Khartoum
- Dress for the Heat: Bring light, breathable fabrics, but don’t forget sturdy boots for navigating the city’s rough terrain.
- Blend In: Avoid British military attire unless you want to attract attention. Neutral clothing will help you observe unnoticed.
- Stay Alert: The Mahdist forces are highly motivated, and the city’s defenders are on edge—be cautious in this volatile environment.
What’s on the Menu?
Experience Sudanese flavours with these traditional dishes:
- Ful Medames: A hearty bean stew perfect for energising you during a siege.
- Kisra: A sourdough flatbread that’s a staple of Sudanese cuisine.
- Hibiscus Tea: Known locally as karkadeh, it’s a refreshing drink even in the chaos of battle.
Fun Trivia About Khartoum and Gordon
- Did you know? The Mahdi’s forces were inspired by both religious fervour and a desire to end foreign rule in Sudan.
- Odd but true: Gordon sent cryptic messages to British authorities, including one urging the relief force to send him 200,000 cats to deal with Khartoum’s rat problem.
- Legacy: Gordon’s death became the subject of countless paintings, poems, and memorials in Victorian Britain, elevating him to near-mythical status.
Want to Know More?
Books
- Gordon of Khartoum: The Saga of a Victorian Hero by John Pollock.
- The Mahdi of Sudan and the Death of General Gordon by Fergus Nicoll.
Articles
- “The Siege of Khartoum” in History Today.
- “General Gordon and the Mahdi: Clash of Cultures” by the Journal of Imperial History.
Web Resources
- Sudan National Museum: www.sudanmuseum.gov
- British Library Archives: www.bl.uk
The Final Word
January 26, 1885, is a day that reverberates through history—a dramatic clash of empire, religion, and resistance. Visiting Khartoum during this pivotal moment offers a front-row seat to the final chapter of General Gordon’s life and the triumph of the Mahdi’s forces.
Whether you’re exploring the city’s walls, watching the Nile’s timeless flow, or pondering the complexities of colonial history, this city break promises a gripping and thought-provoking journey.
Have you travelled to the crossroads of empire or witnessed the turning points of history? Share your tales—we’ll toast your adventures with a cup of karkadeh and a salute to the past!
