First Battle of Agordat facts for kids

Quick facts for kids First Battle of Agordat
Part of the Mahdist War
Date 27 June 1890 Location Agordat, Italian Eritrea Result Italian victory
Belligerents
Italy	Mahdist State
Strength
2 ascari companies	1,000
Casualties and losses
3 killed and 8 wounded	~250 killed

The First Battle of Agordat happened on June 27, 1890. It was the very first fight between Italy and the Mahdist State. The Mahdist State was a powerful group in Sudan at the time.

The fighting started when about 1,000 Mahdist soldiers attacked local tribes. These tribes had agreements with Italy to protect them. The Mahdists then moved towards the wells at Agordat.

The Battle Begins

At Agordat, the Mahdists met Italian-led soldiers. These soldiers were called ascari. They were local troops fighting for Italy. There were two companies of these ascari soldiers.

The battle that followed was a clear win for Italy. Around 250 Mahdist soldiers were killed. Italy had very few losses. Only three Italian soldiers died, and eight were hurt.

Why Italy Won

Historians like Sean McLachlan explain why the Mahdists lost. They say the Mahdists had "inferior weaponry." This means their weapons were not as good as Italy's. They also had "inferior fire discipline." This means their soldiers were not as well-trained in shooting and fighting together. These reasons helped Italy win this battle and another one later, the Battle of Serobeti in 1892.