Battle of Abu Kru facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Abu Kru
Part of the Mahdist War
Stanley L. Woodː The square at Abu-Kru (Battles of the nineteenth century, 1901)
Date January 19, 1885 Location Khartoum, Sudan Result British victory
Belligerents
United Kingdom	Mahdist Sudan
Commanders and leaders
Herbert Stewart  †	Muhammad Ahmad
Strength
1,200	13,000–14,000
Casualties and losses
121	Unknown, likely higher than the British casualties

The Battle of Abu Kru, also known as the Battle of Gubat, was a key fight during the Mahdist War in Sudan. It happened on January 19, 1885. This battle took place just two days after another big fight, the Battle of Abu Klea. It was fought between British soldiers and a large group of Sudanese fighters called the Mahdists.

The British force, led by General Sir Herbert Stewart, had about 1,200 soldiers. They were trying to reach Khartoum to rescue General Charles George Gordon. The Mahdists, who were chasing them, had a much larger army, possibly around 13,000 to 14,000 fighters.

What Was the Mahdist War?

The Mahdist War was a long conflict in Sudan. It lasted from 1881 to 1899. It was fought between the Mahdists, who were followers of a religious leader named Muhammad Ahmad (known as the Mahdi), and the Egyptian and British forces. The Mahdi wanted to create an Islamic state in Sudan.

Why Were the British in Sudan?

At this time, Egypt controlled Sudan. The British had a lot of influence in Egypt. General Charles George Gordon was sent to Khartoum to help evacuate people. However, the Mahdists surrounded the city, trapping Gordon and his forces. The British government then sent a relief expedition to rescue him.

The March to Khartoum

The British relief force had a tough journey. They had to march through the desert. Their goal was to reach Khartoum and save General Gordon. They were trying to take a shortcut by cutting across a large bend in the Nile River. This path was very difficult.

The Battle Begins

On January 19, 1885, the British were close to rejoining the Nile. Suddenly, the Mahdists attacked them. The British soldiers quickly formed a special defensive shape called an infantry square. This formation helped them protect themselves from attacks on all sides.

A Tough Fight

Even though they were attacked, the British kept moving forward. They continued their march towards the river. The Mahdists launched many attacks, but the British square held strong. The fighting was fierce. The British soldiers had to repel wave after wave of Mahdist fighters.

Reaching the Nile

Finally, the British force managed to reach the Nile River. They had fought their way through the Mahdist attacks. This was a big achievement for them. The battle showed the strength and discipline of the British soldiers.

Who Won and What Happened Next?

The Battle of Abu Kru was a victory for the British. They successfully pushed through the Mahdist forces and reached the Nile. However, the victory came at a cost. The British lost 121 soldiers. Sadly, their commander, General Herbert Stewart, was badly wounded during the battle and later died.

The number of Mahdist losses is not known for sure. However, it is believed that they lost many more fighters than the British. After this battle, the British continued their journey towards Khartoum. However, they arrived too late to save General Gordon. Khartoum had already fallen to the Mahdists.