Battle of Abu Kru

Significance

The Battle of Abu Kru, fought on 19 January 1885, was one of two engagements in quick succession — coming two days after Abu Klea — as a 1,200-strong British column under Brigadier General Sir Herbert Stewart pressed toward the Nile against a pursuing Mahdist force estimated at 13,000–14,000. The column's objective was the relief of General Gordon at Khartoum, and Abu Kru was fought at a critical point in that effort: the British were cutting across the Great Bend of the Nile and were attacked when they were close to rejoining the river. The engagement reflected the severe pressure the relief force operated under — heavily outnumbered and fighting successive actions while maintaining its axis of advance toward Khartoum.

Forces & casualties

Commanders (3)