What Happened At The Battle of Omdurman, Sudan 1898?

[@waddahismail1878]

As a Sudanese, we always had very few historians, and of those few, even fewer are objective, most are polishing the Mehdi to the point of distorting history. Your channel is rich, entertaining and most importantly... accurate, well done and keep up the good content.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Really pleased that you found it interesting. Visited Sudan about 10 years ago, wonderful people.

[@kahasson]

Worked in the Sudan for a year in 1980. Hospitable people and a fascinating country. I was based in Rufaa, On the Blue Nile.

[@stephenLarson-vs7fu]

As a former soldier, I appreciate that he does not downplay or diminish the outright bravery of the soldiers of the Mehdi Army (something which is sometimes hard to do for former enemies).

[@mahmoodbasheer5594]

@@kahasson then you have met ustaz Mahmood Mohammed Taha ?

[@williamtaylor9966]

During the filming of the battle sequence for the 1938 Korda production of ‘The Four Feathers’, The East Surrey Regiment was ‘conscripted’ as ‘Kitchener’s Army’, as they were based in the Sudan at the time. As a young Officer, my father witnessed it all and even managed to chat with Ralph Richardson in the evenings. If I remember correctly, during the filming of one long take the Mahdi’s ‘army’ had to be seen to be ‘cut down by rapid fire’. A huge number of local Sudanese were ‘drafted’ in for the ambitious sequence. But one man refused to fall ‘dead’ and remained standing. This was not in the script and caused much irritation as this scene obviously had to be carefully choreographed. On being confronted the elderly man apparently said, that he had survived the original battle 40 years before and he was “not going to die this time either”!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Oh that is brilliant. Thanks for sharing.

[@tim7052]

Good on him for staying true to historical fact!!

[@jeanharry2535]

@@tim7052 well said

[@johnlewis9745]

What a great story. The stuff that legends are made of.

[@Mrfrontrow]

Fantastic bit of history!! The movie "The Four Feathers" is one of my favorite old movies and have watched it at least 6 times.

[@charlesmaximus9161]

American Anglophile and British military history buff here. I’m so glad I just now discovered this fantastic channel! Keep up the good work, my friend! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇬🇧

[@TheHistoryChap]

I’m glad that you enjoyed my story. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos.

[@GijsTheDog]

Whenever you hear about Churchill outside of WW2 it always feels a bit like a cameo.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I agree. Maybe a talk on his early life?

[@davejacobs9042]

Didn't Churchill plan the WWI naval expedition we now call Gallipoli? That wasn't a cameo...

[@GijsTheDog]

@@davejacobs9042 I said "feels".

[@davejacobs9042]

@@GijsTheDog Okay, sounds good to me. And besides, "his early life" can mean any arbitrary age, from puberty to going completely grey.

[@fryertuck6496]

@@davejacobs9042 I think he gets unjustly maligned for that. The original landing was successful but the commander on the beach sat there instead of securing the high ground above the beach. At that point there was a minimal Turkish force that could have been brushed aside. A day later thousands of Turks had dug into a bottle neck, the rest is history.

[@TheScouseassassin]

I'll just watch the Isandlwana episode I said, that was 10.30pm, I'm finally forcing myself to turn in....it's 3.30am! These videos are superb, I normally prefer longer historical shows but these are so well explained, so concise and so well delivered they are positively addictive! Even the wife is happy, she hasn't seen me for days! 😂

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you anre enjoy your binge watching....glad your wife is enjoying you being out of the way too! Hope you managed to get some good sleep.

[@Briselance]

"For less than the cost of a pint a month" That's the most adorably British thing to say. Love it, man. 🍻 Keep the good stuff coming.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed that comic appeal. Chris

[@billballbuster7186]

Very good presentation, the charge of the 21st Lancers at Omdurman was the last formal charge of a British Army cavalry regiment. Some 350 cavalry troopers against 3,000 Dervishes, the stuff of legend.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad that you enjoyed it. Please subscribe so you don't miss my future presentations. I've got the Boer War, the Jameson Raid and the Crimean War in the pipeline.

[@billballbuster7186]

@@TheHistoryChap I did subscribe after watching the story, great stuff.

[@peterk2455]

Except it wasn't the last charge by a British cavalry regiment. That may have been in Afghanistan in May of 1919 by the KDG in Dakka.

[@billballbuster7186]

@@peterk2455 You are correct, there were other cavalry charges made in WWI. But several official histories do credit the 21st as the last FORMAL charge.

[@magicwandfour]

@@billballbuster7186 I think the last was by the Australian Light Horse but it is a matter of definition as they did not have swords or lances but used bayonets.

[@puccini4530]

You've missed out on the greatest character of the time - Col. Frederick Burnaby who died in battle (a spear through his throat) as they fought their way up to relieve Gordon. Burnaby was 6'4" when the average grunt was 5'5". And what a man he was!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Fair point. Yes, he was a character. I find the whole campaign (including the battles on the Red Sea coast) fascinating. Decided to omit only because of time and wasn't sure how in-depth people wanted me to go. Thanks for remembering him.

[@ktheterkuceder6825]

6 foot 4? No wonder he got speared. Hard to miss with that height.

[@amitrana1988]

@@TheHistoryChap bro..we all love History..totally dig it..!! Thanks for the channel already a suscriber

[@StooTV]

It's always a treat to see ANYTHING about this campaign and your details about what happened after the Lancers' charge are really appreciated because those events are rarely mentioned. I have all of the movies related to both Sudan campaigns and love all of the paintings & photos so it was nice to see some of them included here. This video is a worthy "documentary" and one for the collection! Cheers from Montreal.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Hello Montreal! Thanks for your kind words. Please do subscribe to my channel. What would you love me to talk about in the future?

[@bs4209]

Would you please name the movies you know of regarding this i would love to see them thank you for time!

[@StooTV]

@@bs4209 Here's a list that includes both Sudan campaigns: Alarming Queen's Company of Grenadier Guards at Omdurman (1898 Archival footage) The Four Feathers (1915) I don't have this one. The Light That Failed (1916) I don't have this one. The Four Feathers (1921) I don't have this one. The Light That Failed (1923) I don't have this one. The Four Feathers (1929) The Four Feathers (1939) The Light That Failed (1939) Storm Over the Nile (1955) The Light That Failed (1961) I don't have this one. East of Sudan (1964) Khartoum (1966) The Time Tunnel - Raiders From Outer Space (1967) Young Winston (1972) The Four Feathers (1978) The Four Feathers (2002) If anyone is aware of any others, I would LOVE to know!

[@StooTV]

@@TheHistoryChap I would love it if you did any of the less-talked-about British campaigns of the late 19th century like the 1873-74 Ashanti Expedition, 1878-80 Afghan War, 1880-81 Boer War, 1882 Egyptian War, etc. Anyway, your channel is great! 🙂

[@geraldball1111]

I really enjoyed your discourse I had.watched the movie Khartoum With a famous sudanese colonel John Garang de mabier former Vice president and. Sla leader in Sudan.

[@KageMinowara]

Sir I thank you profusely for making a video about this battle. When I was in university I spent quite a long time studying both Charles Gordon and Lord Kitchener and writing about their deeds in Egypt and the Sudan. To the point that they both became heroes for me. That was several years ago and I had not thought of them for a long time until now when this video brought them back into my mind.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I’m glad that you enjoyed my story. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos.

[@paulmoney5642]

Hi my great great grandfather was a prv in the 21st Lancers and was the one that saved his injured officer and received the VC for his efforts.. Before now, I didn't really understand the battle nor the history.. Thankyou so much ... It means alot to me...

[@TheHistoryChap]

It's my pleasure, Paul. I’m glad that you enjoyed my story. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info Chris

[@williamcoleman9451]

My grandfather was in the 21st Lancers at the battle. I remember he had a shield and two spears on the wall of his house. He brought them back home. He was batman to Winston Churchill for a time. He ended his army career in Ireland in and around the Irish rebellion.

[@briancrowther3272]

Wow!!!!! Thanks.

[@barbarakemp1796]

You brought this battle into my front room with thundering cavalry charges and desert dust. Amazing detailed lecture. Both armies very brave and possibly the last we will ever see of that sort of warfare. Now need a cup of tea. That battle was thirsty work lol

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for your kind words. Please make sure to subscribe to my channel so you don’t miss future videos.

[@robertnegron9706]

Cup of tea. 😂😂😂

[@britishpatriot7386]

Oh rather.......two sugars please.

[@DarrenMarsh-kx8hd]

The 1939 version of The Four Feathers is well worth watching, the fictional story is interweaved with actual battles, accurate depictions of the Anglo/Egyptian armies and shows Sudanese fighting alongside the British against the Mahdist, the battle scenes are quite large in scale,featuring thousands of extras, we even get to see the "Expected Ones" tomb get shelled.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing.

[@caractacusbrittania7442]

Alexander korda.

[@conmaz]

Excellent description of the battle. 😊😊😊😊

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video. Thanks for watching.

[@Sean_Coyne]

My grandfather served with the Lancashire Fusiliers in this campaign and later in the 2nd Boer war. I still have photographs of him in uniform with the sphinx on the regimental collar badge.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing your family story.

[@frankramirez7693]

Thank you for his service

[@kingjoe3rd]

This may be the most delightful new history channels that I have come across in a while. Your storytelling skills are extremely coherent and easy to follow.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I’m glad that you enjoyed my story. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos.

[@BasedinReality1984]

Great video! Learnt a lot from this. It’s good to see historians who aren’t out there bashing everything British. Thank you 🙏

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for your kind words. Please make sure to subscribe to my channel so you don’t miss future videos.

[@ahar7624]

Isn't it refreshing in this day and age

[@jeanmanson444]

TOTALLY ABSORBING NARRATIVE…Enjoyed it immensely. Cleared up many side questions I had from reading books and watching movies that included Gordon in the Sudan. Seeing the battle tactics (though few and brief) illustrated the complexity of the action. Looking forward to more BRITISH VICTORIES!!!! Thank you for being there for us….

[@jonmce1]

My grandfather fought at the battle of Omdurman and at Atbara. He was in the Lincolnshire Regiment. He was also at Fashada. He described part of his experiences such as watching the bullets from a Maxim machine gun cut across a horse.

[@Sean_Coyne]

Snap, just added a comment about my granddad from the Lancashire Fusiliers being on the same campaign, and later in the 2nd Boer War. Sadly, I never met him, as he died before I was born. He must have had some great stories to tell. :-)

[@1joshjosh1]

How old are you?

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing that story. The Dervish army were incredibly brave but really didn't stand a chance.

[@Sean_Coyne]

@@1joshjosh1 I'm 70.

[@1joshjosh1]

@@Sean_Coyne Thank you for sharing your story.

[@philsooty61]

Brilliantly explained keeping the facts in line, I hate it when some videos jump all over the place this one doesn't, Great stuff

[@TheHistoryChap]

Hi Phil, thank you for your kind words. If you haven't already, please subscribe to my channel. Currently working on my next video - The Jameson Raid of 1895.

[@Reignor99]

Meanwhile Lindybeige going off on a tangent about tangents.

[@tomwharton9454]

My Grandfather was with the 2nd Bn the Lancashire Fusiliers at Omdurman and the Boer War. He later fought at Mons in the 2nd draft in 1915. I have his medals. He died in 1929 in the British Military Hospital Liverpool from emphysema caused mainly by mustard gas.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Tom, thank you for sharing your grandfather's military experiences. i hope you enjoyed my video and if you did, please subscribe to my KZbin channel for future presentations.

[@briancrowther3272]

That is sad to hear. I thought Id share this with you. My great grandad was in the East lancs regiment. He signed up at the start of WW1 to feed his wife and child, it was a secure income. My bet he like the others had no idea what they were in for, eg it was supposed to be over by Chritmas type sayings. Mum thought she has got him correct in the family history. She said he was at Ypres, he certainly was at Galliopli (apparently at Anzac Cove, if anyone is sure the East Lancs were not there please let me know), then in Mesopotamia (I'd like to know if he was at the BAttle of Bersheba (the last full cavalry cahrge supposedly ever by the OZ Light Horse, {I'm dubiius about that as well, as I belive the Pols charged their lancers at German tanks iin WW2, was that full on charge?}. Later he was I think in the Greek campaign against Atta The Turk, Im basing this on his medal. This is when Llloyd George was attempting to make Constantinople Christian, LOL, we have our own nutters. Great grandad was a strecher bearer, so on the western front that apparently meant he likley drove an ambulance, but not at Gallapoli. He survived it all, no injuries, beginning to end and now I am here in Sydney Oz with Grandkids of my own of a Indian Mauritian father, via indentured labour to cut sugar cane under the Empire. You could not majke it up. All to feed his family. Not British pride. apparently that was the norm from the cotton mill towns.

[@richardweil8813]

@@briancrowther3272 Thank you for sharing. My wife's grandfather joined in WW1 though he didn't have to (age and family) and said he would rather fight than be in the army band. He was gassed and it slowly killed him. His daughter came to America on the "Queen Mary" as a war bride in '46, though that marriage quickly ended (as did many like that). The thing is, my wife's other grandfather was reluctantly drafted into the German army in 1917. Fairly old, after some combat they put him on guard duty in Lithuania and after the Reich collapsed it took him months to walk back to Berlin. The Nazis murdered him but his son made it to the U.S. where he married an divorced Englishwoman...so my wife's grandfather's fought each other on the Western Front! Amazing how these things happen.

You succeed in bringing history alive, something none of my teachers and none of the textbooks I've read, have managed to do. Thank You.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your comment and for watching my video.

[@augustvonmackensen1101]

Young Winston is a masterpiece which captures the charge of the 21st Lancers beautifully.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Yes it does. If you enjoyed then please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@wernerschneider4460]

Very interesting presentation, very British. Enjoyed it. A good support for the books I'm about to read, just like "The River War" by Winston Churchill, "Khartoum - The Ultimate Imperial Adventure" by Michael Asher and "Fire and Sword in the Sudan" by Rudolph von Slatin Pasha, of which I've the honor to own an original English first issue.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for taking the time to share your reading list. I have read the first two. The beginning of Michael Asher's book is riveting. Haven't read von Saltin's book. My understanding is that it was used to justify the invasion.

[@hilarymckinnon5424]

I have enjoyed those books myself but just for a break the fictional Flashman novels have given me a lot of delightful alternative points of view.

[@بُطُرسحَسَّان]

Slatin like Emin Pasha were a couple of punks.

[@Louis_Davout]

Nice read on an EXTREMELY interesting period of World History... Want lighthearted tales of this lperiod, read Fraser's "Flashman", novels....

[@macbatz6734]

@@بُطُرسحَسَّان you blathering idiot. Emin was a doctor and a scientist, slatin an Austrian who became head if the red coss, and together they did more good for the Sudanese than any Arab punk ever did! And by he way it Sir rudolph von slatin pasha, he was ennobled by three diffrent countries, a very rare thing!

[@4june9140]

I love the enthusiasm of this presentation. It really gets you into the action.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for your kind comment. Please do consider subscribing to my channel for more presentations.

[@georgeedwards4807]

Brilliant as always Chris. Appreciate the battle maps you added, helps clear up the image in your head!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you George. I am a visual learner so I find maps and family trees help me to work out what is going on.

[@warlord195711]

Beatty did not command the Grand Fleet at Jutland - that was Jellicoe. Beatty commanded the battlecruiser squadron at Jutland, and became commander of the Grand Fleet later in the war.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for taking the time to point out.

[@DraftySatyr]

Yes, the (in)famous David "There seems to be something wrong with our bloody ships today" Beatty, as quoted after the loss of HMSs Invincible, Queen Mary and Indefatigable at Jutland.

[@toothedacorn4724]

@@DraftySatyr he said that after Princess Royal was obscured by a salvo leading everyone to assume she too had exploded (she had not), this was prior to the arrival of invincible let alone her destruction

[@bobbygardiner6840]

More of a villain than hero but as always very well connected. For example Lord Chelmsford.

[@christophertomsett3086]

Very good otherwise brilliantly told you bring the event back to life you are a very good history teacher well done

[@tim7052]

For those who remember the Dad's Army TV series, now we finally know about Jonesy's role in this battle!! "They don't like it up 'em!!" 🤣👍

[@TheHistoryChap]

Good old Jonesy :) Please make sure to subscribe for future videos.

[@myview5840]

They certainly didn't like it up em

[@MrDiggityaus]

“The Battle of Omni-bum-bum” 😂

[@Philcopson]

I always remember Captain Mainwaring rolling his eyes and sighing as Jonesy embarks on yet another rambling account of his time serving in the Sudan: "Of course, he wasn't the original Mad Mahdi, Sir - this Mad Mahdi was the son of the first Mad Mahdi..."

[@glenmorgan4597]

The mahdis son actually became a cloakroom attendant in the uk,,Mahat Macoat​@Philcopson

[@briandubois-gilbert8182]

A superbly mesmerizing narrative/snapshot of Britain’s history in Egypt and the Sudan. Sadly today, Sudan, South Sudan and the Darfur region, as is much of that troubled part of Africa, remain mired in post-colonial underdevelopment, Islamist fundamentalism and political instability and conflict that’s a source of ongoing concern for much of the modern world. Thank you for another engrossing video on history.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Spent some time in Sudan a few years ago. Lovely people. Make sure you subscribe to my channel so you don't miss future talks.

[@BigDaddyButthead90]

Nothing post colonial about that part of the world, China is now the colonial master.

[@bretnielsen5502]

One of the best "play by Plays" I've heard outside the classroom Thanks for posting and I did subscribe.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for subscribing. I appreciate your support. What would you like me to talk about in the future?

[@bretnielsen5502]

Me TOO! Better than any classroom I've ever set through. God Save the King!

[@samrodian919]

A great telling of a great victory for the British Empire. I knew nothing about the battle against the "Fuzzy-Wuzzies" to quote Lance Corporal Jones of Dads Army fame other than that we won the battle. Now after your fantastic telling of the action I know much more. Thank you for that. One thing though, the maps you show can be a little confusing because there isn't time really to study them in any detail and although normally maps are shown with North to the top, it would be nice if you added the NS EW sign to the map, And the direction of the flow of the river Nile to help us to get to grips with the story. I for one am going to watch the video again and screenshot the maps shown so as to understand it a bit easier.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your time feeding back. Will bear in mind for future videos.

[@luxin6235]

What a great video! You’re criminally underrated…

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for your kind words. Please make sure to subscribe to my channel so you don’t miss future videos.

[@peterfranklin1759]

Fascinating. Just came across this by accident (maybe). You certainly bring it to life. Half an hour or so well spent. And in these days of Covid, where ordinary people become experts on the home library of people making such content or being interviewed or reporting from home, you score highly in that department. Thank you.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for your kind words. Please make sure to subscribe to my channel so you don’t miss future videos.

[@FrakkinGaiusBaltar]

An absolutely riveting recountment of these events. My compliments and, as they say, "we will follow your carreer with great interest"

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your kind words. Please do subscribe so that you can follow my future talks. Got lots of exciting subjects to cover.

[@manuelkong10]

btw....your descriptions of these historic character's personalities is BRILLIANT----focused sharp concise....I get meaningful impressions of the person you're discussing unlike many other videos or books I've looked into

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for your kind words.

[@georgegoodyear9631]

Thank you for providing an insightful outline of the Omdurman campaign. The only topic not covered seems to be that of Corporal Jones’s, of “Dad’s Army” fame, contribution.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I'm giggling at your comment. So pleased that you enjoyed it. What should I cover next?

[@georgegoodyear9631]

@@TheHistoryChap Hello again, Chris. Would you consider doing some broadcasts on the Special Operations Executive? This Churchill-inspired organisation, whose remit was to “Set Europe Ablaze!”, was peopled by agents whose bravery was beyond my comprehension. Thus, perhaps a tribute to their gallant souls might be of a general interest to your audience? Bye for now, George.

[@oldgitsknowstuff]

The Fuzzywuzzys don't like it up em.

[@abdoalaa2088]

@@georgegoodyear9631 iam from Khartoum

[@funkydanieluk]

Well just as long as you don't panic about it.

[@joepipito7431]

Very Informative video Good job 👍

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for your kind words. Please make sure to subscribe to my channel so you don’t miss future videos.

[@ianwebb2235]

Fascinating. Thank you very much from a Welshman in Japan! Liked and subscribed.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Hi Ian, thanks for your support. Watch out for my next video - The Jameson Raid of 1895.

[@akacadian3714]

Great Videos and a nice library.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you liked. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info Chris

[@nicofolkersma2535]

Great way of telling the story. I was hoping you'd bring up the 21st nickname, and you did. Hope you do the charge of the light brigade.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks Nico. Got the Charge of the Light Brigade (& Crimean War) on my list for future talks. Please subscribe to my channel so you don't miss them.

[@johnhudak3829]

FANTASTIC JOB! Felt like I was there. Subscribed!!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for subscribing. I appreciate your support. What would you like me to talk about in the future?

[@mohammedcohen]

...Churchills stint with the 21st Lancers - and his mother's influence on Kitchener - is portrayed well in 'Young Winston'...a very under appreciated 1972 movie

[@TheHistoryChap]

Good film based upon his book. Thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@Braun30]

Saw it on the third night after world first, must have the booklet somewhere.

[@rosiehawtrey]

I remember that, also showed Churchill Snr going Doolally from Neurosyphilis. A disease you really don't want intimate experience of.

[@John-ob7dh]

​@@rosiehawtrey Yes .Lord Randolph Churchill ( a naughty boy )

[@frederickgolding1913]

​@@John-ob7dhactually the eminent historian Andrew Roberts had debunked that as an inaccurate diagnosis.

[@gaelswed]

LOVE the history chap...it is like listening to a very knowledgable and passionate mate down the pub.great concept!!!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for your kind words. Strangely enough it was some mates in the pub that gave me the idea - maybe they just wanted to get rid of me! Please make sure to subscribe to my channel so you don’t miss future videos. kzbin.info

[@jasondevon481]

That was a most edifying production, old chap!

[@TheHistoryChap]

I’m glad that you enjoyed my story. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos.

[@paulo2614ify]

I agree with Bill B - very good presentation even story/narrative. thank you most informative ciao paul

[@TheHistoryChap]

Many thanks Paul. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos.

[@nozrep]

excellent excellent excellent presentation! American that I am, I had very little previous knowledge of this British history event other than that I was aware that Churchill had served in Africa in his younger years. Very excellent story telling ability and first time one of your videos had been recommended on my “feed”. I love learning these types of histories.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for your kind words. Please make sure to subscribe to my channel so you don’t miss future videos. I'm sure Churchill will make more appearances (after all he gets everywhere).

[@nozrep]

yes, will do

[@michaelpoyntz774]

Really interesting video. Excellent presentation!

[@TheHistoryChap]

I’m glad that you enjoyed my story. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos.

[@michaelpoyntz774]

@@TheHistoryChap I had not realized that a young officer aka Winston Churchill was involved in this battle. But, to me, is contributes to understanding the nature of his ferocity and determination in taking on Hitler years later! Having survived a do or die, hand to hand combat situation, his capacity to anticipate and rally against Hitler post Chancellor sympathies makes a lot more sense!

[@martinhogg5337]

Fascinating account of the battle. Happy to subscribe!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your support. Apart from the Battle of Omdurman what would you like me to talk about in the future?

[@Mark-bb2vr]

Another fantastic presentation! Please keep it up!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you. I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@sci-fifuture465]

Never knew much about this part ok UK history, thanks for the video!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it Please subscribe so you don't miss my new releases.

[@charlessmith7703]

Absolutely fantastic telling of a battle I knew little about

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching

[@stephenmcdonald7713]

Hi Chris, that was very interesting, but what came out of the blue was now knowing why my father, born 1917 named Earl "Kitchener" McDonald, his brother 1916 " Hector" McDonald. The Empire spread every where back then, even babies? Hello from Australia.

[@TheHistoryChap]

That's a fantastic link. I'm thinking about doing a talk about both of those military men. Greetings from a cloudy England (as per usual!)

[@johnlewis9158]

@@TheHistoryChap Its a Crying Shame that Hector McDonald great soldier and commander that he was career should end in ignominy

[@richardweil8813]

A very exciting and well presented story! I would just add that Kitchener then followed Salisbury's orders to go south and evict the French from their foothold on the Nile. It is very sad though that the British generals don't seem to have learned from this battle what would happen when they ordered charges against German machine guns. But this history isn't that far away. About 20 years ago I was visiting my wife's cousins in Liverpool. At the pub I got drunk with an older one, Clive, who had been in the Kenyan constabulary. He talked about fighting and killing the Mau-Mau "Communists" and was still angry that they hadn't retaken the Suez Canal in '56. He was two generations after Omdurman but could have stepped out of a history book.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for taking the time to both watch and to comment

[@brendenwalters8475]

The only thing I knew about the Battle of Omdurman was what Corporal Jones, of Dad's Army, boasted about. Very interesting presentation - thank you.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed. You can see why Corporal Jones boasted about it - i guess if you were there you didn't forget it.

[@jroch41]

BRAVO! 👏Again, your attention to details in strories recounted here I've found seldom anywhere else (note: historian TIK's videos are quite good). Kitchener certainly went out with a BANG 💥 (fitting?) A little more map indications of battles would only improve things, IMHO. Glad to be a subscriber to your channel. 👍

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your support

[@RetroGamesCollector]

Absolutely fascinating. Really enjoyed this.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I’m glad that you enjoyed my story. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos.

[@1CounterTerrorist]

Awesome video thanks, much appreciated. Easy subscription.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you. I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@chrisdonohue5542]

Truly, if i lost the blessing of sight... I would still be engaged and enthralled by your talented ability to paint an exciting story in word... THANKYOU!!!!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & yuour kind comment.

[@TheScoopGorrilla]

Just discovered your channel, great subjects. Subscribed 👍

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your support. What would you love me to talk about in the future?

[@TheScoopGorrilla]

@@TheHistoryChap i particularly enjoy colonial history so anything around the great game, the scramble for Africa or the Indian mutiny always gets my vote.

[@DarrenMarsh-kx8hd]

A satisfying end to a marvellous series about the Anglo Sudan campaign. Winston Churchill certainly does pop up a lot, I wonder if you could do a series that focuses on this man, The Greatest Briton.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for taking the time to watch and to comment.

[@neilfoddering921]

For many years, I’ve found this period of our history fascinating, so thank you for bringing it to life with your inspired presentation! My interest arose because my great-great uncle served in this campaign. I’ve given some details, but managed somehow to append them to a comment regarding Hector MacDonald! Incidentally, I imagine that you’ve encountered “With Kitchener to Khartoum” by G W Steevens? It’s an excellent book, very readable, unlike some drier histories.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for your kind words and for sharing your family story. Please make sure to subscribe to my channel so you don’t miss future videos.

[@barryrudge1576]

an excellent well told story that gave me even more information about those times

[@TheHistoryChap]

I’m glad that you enjoyed my story. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos.

[@sixofnine9407]

Great description on the events that led to the battle.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@joeritchie4554]

I love these British Military History Lessons. I used to subscribe to a magazine named British Military History. I love these presentations!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you are enjoying.

[@jackdawkins3039]

Some years ago I read the book, “Omdurman” by Philip Ziegler and seem to remember reading that Haig (?) had a very poor opinion of machine guns and didn’t think much of them. I guess that was before they proved their worth. Also I recall that the battle was the first time machine guns had been used. Interestingly, Omdurman was the last war when a cavalry charge was employed.

[@RajuDas-qu1li]

Great to hear as if the event happened just yesterday! Yes! This is lively, interesting and fascinating. You tell history with a certain amount of zeal and enthusiasm that only a few people may have. Those with fascination for history this is indeed a channel to reckon with . Good luck! Have a great day!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for taking the time to comment.

[@crsnmorton]

As I understand it, Churchill had wrenched his shoulder some time before when he reached for a ring in a dock to steady the boat he was in while landing ashore in India. This made it difficult for him to extend his sword during the ill-fated cavalry charge. Instead, he took out his nine-shot Mauser revolver which he had bought in London earlier. That wrenched shoulder and the nine bullets in the Mauser no doubt saved his life that day. History can turn on the slightest thing.

[@TheHistoryChap]

It would have been different indeed. Rather like when he stepped out in front of a taxi whilst visiting USA in the 1930's. He ended up in a critical condition in hospital. Another "What if?" moment in history.

[@morriganmhor5078]

Why was the charge ill-fated? About 300 lancers against 2000-3000 jihadis, that were routed and seems to be a victory (and with the need of MG´s).

[@michaelemberley2767]

It was a Mauser automatic pistol, not a revolver.

[@crsnmorton]

@@michaelemberley2767 You're correct, of course.

[@petelacey243]

10 shot 7.63 Mauser self loader.

[@stigmontgomery7901]

Very interesting video, thank you. As mentioned earlier in the comments, Michael Asher's book "Khartoum" covers not only the final battle but all the events leading up to it. Some interesting points I found were that Gordon, in one of his previous admin. posts, had banned slavery in the Sudan but had to rescind that ban because of the civil unrest it caused among the Sudanese as it was one of their main sources of income. Also in previous Anglo-Egyptian campaigns in the years before, the Egyptian/Sudanese troops were poorly trained and inclined to lose heart very quickly. This was not the case with MacDonald's troops for example who were superb troops, properly trained and led and didn't cut and run, much to the surprise of the Dervishes. Finally the Dervishes were formidable and brave fighters well led and outfitted with relatively modern rifles and artillery - so not poor native fighters outclassed by rampaging colonists as is often portrayed nowadays. The Dervishes held bloody sway in Sudan for many years prior to Omdurman and it was a big military task to overcome them - to Kitchener's eternal credit.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Once more, I love the points you contribute and the detail you go into. You are right about the quality of the Dervish army. Plus what many people forget is that they were full of religious and revolutionary zeal and had tried to invade both Egypt and Ethiopia. They were not quite innocent victims of aggression!

[@briancrowther3272]

Thanks, it is good to get another side to the story of cutlasses vs machine guns. That was my understanding and this cast didn't change that. I'll keep an eye for that. Maybe the book you recommend. Nice to have some knowledge with a source added. Thanks. Ksavampire replying t tarinkg arm reiterates the nos dead on each side and says that is an indication of the technology disparity. Maybe true, not sure. One thing is for sure, if the British/Egyptians had not behaved well, even if their technology was so superior then the battle could have been lost if those dervishes had got up close. Like the presenter said, the rifles with bayonets are not a match for sabres in that situation. I imagine. Im not an expert.

[@oldgitsknowstuff]

Absolutely superb production. I was literally riveted to my couch watching this. Why weren't you my history teacher ? Anyway, acknowledgements to senior officers involved such as Admiral (there's something wrong with our bloody ships) Beatty. The officer named after the Grenville tower disaster and good old Lord Kitchener which you rightly stated, drowned when the ship he was travelling upon got sunk. It was HMS Hampshire and it also took down his military escort, a detachment of the South Notts Hussars. (My Dear old Dads regiment). The Maxim machine gun not only kills the enemy at a firing rate of 600 rounds per minute, it also boils water so British soldiers can enjoy the favourite brew... Tea. First class production. High 5s all round.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for your kind comments. I'm glad that you enjoyed it.

[@oldgitsknowstuff]

@@TheHistoryChap OK. What's next in the pipes ?

[@technodemic6258]

Read Churchill's "The River War". Makes this documentary look like the shit it is.

[@trooperdgb9722]

@@technodemic6258 Really? Lets see YOUR production then....

[@technodemic6258]

@@trooperdgb9722 Unfortunately You Tube don't allow a mention of the inclusion of links to one's own channel.

[@darshparmar7679]

thanks its soo cool hearing about this history I’m from Australia we have suburbs/county’s named after general Gordon,street names like khartoum may more Names of British origin it interesting to hear there back story.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for taking the time to comment. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos.

[@John-ob7dh]

I live in Kent .And in our local town ( where he came from ) we have a few streets named after him .Gordon Square etc

[@briancrowther3272]

i am from London and grew up there, on this stuff. I left there for Sydney in 1981 and am still here. I ride motorcycles for fun and often go through Lithgow and it is full of all these names. I live in the Hawkesbury, NW Sydney and am into a book atm called The MAking Of The English Working Class EP Thompson a penguin classic, out of print atm. I was lucky and got a copy. This is set approx 1780 to 1840. You should see the colonial people's names that crop up when you start looking up points from the book, eg Camperdown, a Sydney suberb but its the name of a battle that on looking up I reckon almost ranks with Trafalga, so many names around the Hawkesbury are of these guys, unfortunately they are all guys. Obvioulsy Hawkesbury/Nepean, but Castlereagh (a bottom hole it turns out), Pitt (ditto), Wilberforce (ditto to my suprise), Lord Howe (I know its not a suberb, bet it is somewhere) etc. This is another amazing time of history, as is Alfred's time. No one could make this stuff up so exciting. Just read People Of the River a recent book about the Darrubin tribe (Darrubin River means Hawkesbury/Nepean River) and then their encounters with the British empire. It is Australia Day today and I think a sad day when one considers what that entailed. I didn't know that when I came, I came to look for oil and gas as a young man and it was just beer, parties, beach, sun and beng poil and gas lots $$$. Many years on I see another side, a side I am not so comfortable with. I'd like the day changed for another day where we can all share. Keep this as Invasion/sorry day. I feel sick thinking about it.

[@Goffas_and_gumpys]

Good yarn mate, really enjoyed it. Going to binge some more of your stuff.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed. Check out my Zulu War video (if you haven't already) kzbin.info/www/bejne/gWWUoX6Nr7Csm7c Plus lots of talks around British history. One of my favourites is the Tottenham Outrage kzbin.info/www/bejne/jaOvn2d3nd-MjbM

[@neil2385]

There was probably a little bit more that could have been said about this event but you told a very important story. Thank you!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Neil, yes loads more. I skirted around the battles en-route to Omdurman, plus Fashoda (not forgetting the whole back story to Kitchener's invasion). I am conscious that not everyone wants to watch an hour-long video.

[@csjrogerson2377]

A very interesting and informative video which was very well narrated. Just to let you know, at 10:24 in your description of the deployment of Kitchener's forces, you got your North and South mixed up.

[@TheHistoryChap]

You spotted it! I was getting myself in a right muddle :) Glad you enjoyed the talk too.

[@trickysam04]

Excellent job. Thankyou Chris.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I’m glad that you enjoyed my story. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos. By the way, what would you like me to talk about in the future?

[@zenolachance1181]

You did a wonderful job presenting this! I simply have to subscribe!.... the music at the end sounds like lindybeige! I love listening to you cover British history, and that's saying a lot for A Yank

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for your kind words. Please make sure to subscribe to my channel so you don’t miss future videos.

[@brendanoneill1466]

This was great. So glad I happened upon the chanel.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for your kind words. Please make sure to subscribe to my channel so you don’t miss future videos.

[@brendanoneill1466]

@@TheHistoryChap already did. I am hooked

[@Spartan129]

Chris , I love your passion and knowledge of history mixed with a penchant for storytelling. Absolutely hooked and now subscribed, well done sir !

[@TheHistoryChap]

Nick, thank you for your support. Here is my latest video: "The Thin Red Line": kzbin.info/www/bejne/eV6viYWXq7OVgrc

[@bigblob1623]

I just found your channel. You done some great work here, very well done.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Many thanks. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@davidprocter3578]

My good friend Sami's family fought on the other side at Omdurman his grandfather just eight years old received a saber slash from his neck to his buttocks, and after the battle was put into hiding to recover from his wounds and avoid the culling of injured warriors that followed the battle for some considerable time.It is my understanding he was in hiding for two or three years, coming from a prominent family he was at more risk than usual. He grew up safely ,married the daughter of the family that sheltered him.becoming a revered holy man as an adult.

[@CatOfSchroedinger]

wait ... "culling" ? ... The British killed injured enemy soldiers after the battle ??

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing. There are always (at least) two sides to every story.

[@2msvalkyrie529]

Was he the " butt " of jokes ?

[@geraldmiller8973]

another superb telling of a great battle we never heard of. until you told it.that is why i love your videos. thank you.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching

[@MrKato88]

Another brilliant and fascinating story from our past, and all the future main players were at this battle. I wonder if Kitchner did take his skull 💀....

[@TheHistoryChap]

So pleased that you enjoyed it. Another participant was Lt. Col Townsend, who was to command the ill-fated garrison at Kut during WW1, when the British surrendered to the Turks.

[@roddyteague6246]

Yes he did! Kitchener had the skull mounted in silver for use as an ink well with the inscription Sic Gordon Tyrannis. Gordon is avenged! Queen Victoria was not amused........

[@nr875]

You are an excellent storyteller. You bring history to life like William Manchester did. You get just the right amount of details to bring us into their world.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Very kind of you. Thanks

[@nathanappleby5342]

I would like to add a small correction here. It was said in the video that Douglas Haig, who was present at the battle, was a major at the time, he was actually a captain. Reading one of the comments below, I was fascinated to find out that one of the Mahdist veterans of the battle survived to take part in the 1938 movie production and repeated what he did at the battle in the movie. Something to note is that overtime, engineers have proven to be good soldiers, with the exception of McClellan. As for Kitchener, for a man with "rough" traits to himself, weeping for his friend and fellow engineer's death after the battle showed that he IS human. As for the destruction of the Mahdi's tomb, the scattering of his bones across thew desert, and the slaying of the Mahdist wounded after the battle, none of that had to happen! There is of course no glory in war, but I am inclined to say, like Frderick the Great at Rossbach, Napoleon at Austerlitz, and Ulysses S. Grant at Vicksburg before him, the Omdurmann campaign, and the battle itself, was Kitchener's masterpiece win. If only he had gone on to command the British Expeditionary Force in the First World War, a lot would have been different.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Nathan, thanks for sharing your perspective (and the correction about Haig's rank). Kitchener gets a bad press (not least due to Boer War concentration camps) but he got results. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@AlejandroGermanRodriguez]

Outstanding description of the battle. Congratulations.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Many thanks, I’m glad that you enjoyed it.

[@chrisholland7367]

Great story, brilliant well told 👍

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it. Please do subscribe to my channel.

[@KernowekTim]

So pleased to have discovered this excellent channel. I wish that my history teacher's lessons at boarding school were as interesting.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your kind words.

[@FishBarney]

Very well done. Thanks.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for your kind comments. Have you watched my talks on Gordon of Khartoum or the Zulu wars?

[@lewishydee]

This is absolutely brilliant, keep up the great videos.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Many thanks for your kind words. Please make sure to subscribe to my channel so you don’t miss future videos.

[@TorrentUK]

My great grandfather served under Kitchener in the second Boer War and took part in the relief of Kimberley battle. He kept a diary and we have a detailed account of the day of the battle and how it unfolded

[@TheHistoryChap]

Wow, I bet that is an interesting read.

[@richardweil8813]

That is great. Have you shared it with any historians? It could be an important piece to add to the record.

[@TorrentUK]

@@richardweil8813 Yes, it was on display in the National History Museum back in the late 80's and was featured over two pages in the illustrated Dorling Kindersley book 'War' in 2006

[@RedcoatsReturn]

Excellent history my’ol mate 😄👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏😊 Very well and grippingly told too 😉👍👍

[@TheHistoryChap]

I’m glad that you enjoyed my story. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos.

[@RedcoatsReturn]

@@TheHistoryChap I subbed naturally, looking forward to more of your well researched documentaries 😊😊

[@بُطُرسحَسَّان]

My mother’s grandpa fought under Khalifa Abdallah at this battle while my paternal grandpa fought in the Senussi war in Libya. A family of soldiers.

[@robertsettle2590]

Truly a family of WARRIORS! Certainly purebred wild stallions ready at all times for HARDCORE ACTION!!!!!

[@abeh8102]

I read this reply as an subtle invalidation of the original commenter. Given the commenter's familiarity of his forefather's wartime services, and quality of his/her communication, it is likely that they are quite cultured and civilized. Perhaps bilingually so in both traditions. His forefathers could and more likely were quite cultivated in their own culture, while also finding themselves as soilders for the Sudaneese side. Basically, there is nothing in what the commenter wrote to suggest that they were "wild", "purebred", or "warriors" instead of soilders who took up arms to assert indigenous/self-rule in their geographical and neighbouring area. If you are not trolling, it's kinda instructive to all of us about the basis of assumptions involving the 'other' and our word preferences.

[@بُطُرسحَسَّان]

@@robertsettle2590 nah mate a warrior is a crazy guy with an axe that fights without discipline or order. He fights first for his glory and fame. Soldiers fight for the one True God (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) and for a noble cause. One fought for Islam and the other fought against the Italian fascists. They didn’t want prizes or fame. Just to do their duty.

[@ks-qu4kj]

legendary - it takes a true warrior to fight and charge head on into a modern army armed with machine guns and artillery...

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing. I visited Khartoum a few years ago. Loved the people.

[@austingode]

Just stumbled on this channel, subbed straight away

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your support. Check out my latest videos about the Boer War 1899-1902. kzbin.info

[@BHam336]

Very nice history lesson, I’m glad this popped into my suggested. I’d bet dollars to donuts you’ve probably only been told this a couple of times 😉 but you’re an excellent story teller.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I am glad you enjoyed it and thank you for your kind comment. Please subscribe for future stories. Any historic events you'd like me to cover?

[@BHam336]

I’d really appreciate the Entente’s expeditions into Soviet Russia. Fascinating subject. Truly, anything from the colonial rush through to the interwar period. I see you have a few on your channel & gladly working my way through them. Cheers!

[@eliasblum753]

I'm watching this from Khartoum, Sudan. I bought some books on the Sudan campaigns to read while I am here: Churchill's 'River War' and Mark Simner's 'The Sirdar and the Khalifa: Kitchener’s Re-conquest of the Sudan, 1896-98'. Very interesting. I am hoping to go to visit the battle site during my stay here.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Loved visiting Khartoum. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@ahmedmuawia2447]

Amazing video! I am Sudanese and this battle which we call "Karari" is extremely important in Sudanese history as well. A sorta of a romanticized last stand, Sudanese Almo if you may. And even tho many less than flattering things could be said about the Mahdists especially their leadership (Khalifa Abdullah caused both a famine, alienated local allies and Mismanaged two Military expeditions that could have quite frankly help the war effort. His descion to face the British-Egyptian troops in pitched battles is what truly lead to doom other than obviously technological and discipline superiority to the Darawish) The Revolution still remains something of a catalyst to a Sudanese national identity that formed in the 20s, earlier than many African nationalist movements. The Mahdists didn't just control the sudan! They united the Sudan! (well at least the Muslims, very tough luck if you happen to be pagan or Native-Christian. Another point of contention with Mahdists) With Berbers, Arabs, Nubians, Nuba, Darfuris, Shuilk and all the people in between, the Mahdist Army was a SUDANESE army.... Something unfortunately that could no longer be said about the current state of affairs here... But hey we have through worse.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Dear Ahmed, Thanks for taking the time to comment and giving me a fresh perspective. Your comments highlight to me how we are the products of our history (both good and bad). I flew into Khartoum a few years ago and was fascinated to look down at the landmarks that identified the Karari battlefield. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info Best wishes, Chris

[@williamearl1662]

Very interesting to see it all from another perspective, thankyou.

[@panagiotissparis7036]

Good show mate! A very detailed and spirited narration well-worth the time spent watching!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@spadebraithwaite1762]

Have you noticed that to get named for a place, you need to have a last name that's a first name. Gordon of Khartoum, Laurence of Arabia, Clive of India. Montgomery of Alamein, Scott of the Antarctic. Why is that? I used to be married to a lady called April Oliver, and I seriously thought about taking her name, just in case. You never heard of a Perkins of anywhere. Good story.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Ha ha, your comment has made my day. Hope you enjoyed the video.

[@stigmontgomery7901]

@@TheHistoryChap Spade of Braithwaite! :)

[@firmaith]

Amazingly organized bookshelf!

[@TheHistoryChap]

I try :)

[@trailingarm63]

That was a great account. I previously thought Omdurman was just a massacre but clearly the Mahdists formed a large and dangerous army which was there to fight. Had the British leadership been less able it could have been another disaster. I was also taught that Gordon was something of an embarrassment to the British establishment because he had been ordered to withdraw from Khartoum (and the Sudan itself) rather than defend it. Churchill led a charmed life, he believed he was destined to save his country and it appears he was. Kitchener probably thought that if he left the Mahdi's body & tomb in place it would become a future rallying point for rebels. While I understood everything you said, I couldn't follow the maps - simplified versions with coloured felt pens would help dimwits like me. Cheers!

[@ksavampire]

Most encounters between colonial armies and local militias result in a massacre. The disparity between the two side in terms of weapons and training is huge. (18 lost vs 2000 in one battle?)

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for your kind words and feedback about the maps. I also like the points you made...one mans hero is someone else villain and vice versa. Please make sure to subscribe to my channel so you don’t miss future videos.

[@bob_the_bomb4508]

@@ksavampire I don’t know…that really was a viciously sharp piece of kiwi fruit… Captain E Blackadder

[@Sid1035]

Now you know the truth, he was an embarrassment to the queen in spite of his achievements.

[@macbatz6734]

@@TheHistoryChap yes, my only criticism is the maps, I know it's more expensive but we could really do with moving coloured arrows or lines and stuff, tu really get the picture....

[@jeanharry2535]

you are a really good narrator sir, keep up the good work.. from a montreal, quebec,canada fan!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you so much, Jean. If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@jeanharry2535]

DONE that for sure !!!