Battle of Kirbekan facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Kirbekan
Part of the Mahdist War
A British map of the battle
Date 10 February 1885 Location Mahdist Sudan mnaseir Result British Victory
Belligerents
United Kingdom	Mahdist State
Commanders and leaders
William Earle  †	Musa abu higel
Strength
1,000	9,000
Casualties and losses
60 killed	2,000 killed

The Battle of Kirbekan was an important fight during the Mahdist War. It happened on February 10, 1885. A British army group, called the Nile Column, attacked a strong Mahdist force. The British had about 1,000 soldiers. They were led by General Earle. The battle took place at the heights of Kirbekan. The British won the battle, defeating the Mahdist forces completely.

What Happened Before the Battle

The British army was fighting in the Mahdist War in Sudan. This war was against the Mahdist State. The Mahdists were a religious and political movement. The British wanted to control the area. They were trying to reach Khartoum, a major city. The Battle of Kirbekan was part of this bigger plan.

The Battle of Kirbekan

The battle began when the British Nile Column attacked. They stormed the high ground where the Mahdist forces were waiting. The fighting was tough. The British soldiers fought bravely to take control of the heights.

Sadly, the British lost 60 soldiers in the battle. Among them was their leader, General William Earle. He was killed during the fighting. This was a big loss for the British.

This battle was also special for another reason. It was the first time the Egyptian Army Camel Corps fought. This group rode camels into action. They were led by an officer named Bimbashi Marriott.

A special brass plaque remembers one of the soldiers who died. It is on the North wall of Lichfield Cathedral. This plaque honors Lieutenant colonel Philip Eyre. He was from the First South Staffordshire Regiment.

Who Fought in the Battle

The British forces were made up of different groups. Here are some of the main units that fought at Kirbekan:

• A group of cavalry soldiers from the 19th Hussars.
• Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, South Staffordshire Regiment.
• Brave fighters from the 1st Battalion, The Black Watch (Royal Highlanders).
• D Company, a part of the 1st Battalion, Gordon Highlanders.
• About 45 boatmen from Canada who helped move supplies.