FROM THE PUBLISHER

"This book is a detailed and original study of the period (1878-80) preceding the Mahdist revolution in the Sudan. Those years had not thus far received particular attention in the literature, despite its importance in the history of the Nile Valley."--BOOK JACKET.

SYNOPSIS

The focus of this book is the leadership of Charles George Gordon, the governor-general of the Sudan, during the Turkiyya period (1821-85). The book analyzes his administration and the political, economic and social developments under his leadership against a background of political unrest in Egypt and the weakening of Khedive Ismail's position in the face of increasing European financial imperialism. All aspects of his administration are looked at, based upon primary sources from archives in Europe, the United States and Egypt. This study argues that the period was one of continuity and change, and that, besides the escalating struggle against the slave trade, the fundamental causes of the Madhist revolution were all in place well before 1877.
Gordon's fight against the slave traders added another dimension to existing Sudanese opposition to the Turco-Egyptian colonial rule. His authoritarian behaviour is also looked at as serving as a deterrant to the outbreak of the revolt.

FROM THE CRITICS

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