Khartoum: The Ultimate Imperial Adventure

A well written account of the Mahdist War (1881-1898). One of the pivotal events in the later years of the British Empire. It was followed immediately by the Second Anglo-Boer War and then after a short respite World War One. Many of the folks involved with the Mahdist War would go on to see action in South Africa and then World War One. Of course, Winston Churchill would wrap everything up with World War II, but that's Churchill for you. No half measures. I believe it can be argued that the seventeen-year conflict set into motion forces that led to 9/11 and all that has taken place since. Of course, it isn't that simple, but it is connected in my opinion. Mr. Asher has spent years living and traveling through Africa and the Middle East. He also served in the British Army Paratroopers (Northern Ireland) and the Special Air Service (SAS). His writing is based on both solid research and real-world experience. It shows on every page. Especially when he details what life was like for those who were trying to survive not only the war but the desert environment. Despite the title this is not a glorification of Imperialism or the British Empire. Nor is it a leftist leaning histography with Marxist ideology providing the seasoning. In my opinion this is a solidly written piece of military history that neither glorifies nor destroys the participants. I found it to be a well written book that details the long running conflict without the need to heap guilt on top of the reader for enjoying the experience vicariously.