Page "Charles George Gordon" Paragraph 15

The Egyptian authorities had been extending their control southwards since the 1820s.

An expedition was sent up the White Nile, under Sir Samuel Baker, which reached Khartoum in February 1870 and Gondokoro in June 1871.

Baker met with great difficulties and managed little beyond establishing a few posts along the Nile.

The Khedive asked for Gordon to succeed Baker as governor of the region.

After a short stay in Cairo, Gordon proceeded to Khartoum via Suakin and Berber.

From Khartoum, he proceeded up the White Nile to Gondokoro.