Charles George Gordon
A Victorian soldier of fortune whose daring exploits in China and doomed stand in Sudan made him a complex imperial hero and martyr.
1833–1885 (age 52)·British general·Birthday: January 28
Biography
Charles George Gordon commanded the 'Ever Victorious Army' in the 1860s, helping the Qing dynasty crush the Taiping Rebellion. His bravery earned him the nickname 'Chinese Gordon' and a global reputation. After colonial postings including governing Sudan for the Egyptian Khedive, he was sent back to Khartoum in 1884 to evacuate Egyptian forces threatened by a Mahdist uprising. Defying orders, he dug in, convinced he could hold the city. The siege of Khartoum obsessed Britain. A relief expedition arrived two days late. Gordon was killed by Mahdist warriors in 1885, his death immortalized in a painting that captured the contradictions of the British Empire.
#1 When Charles Was Born
The biggest hits of 1833
Charles's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1833Born
1838Started school
1846Became a teenager
1849Could drive
1851Could vote
1854Turned 21
1863Turned 30
President: Abraham Lincoln
1873Turned 40
President: Ulysses S. Grant
1883Turned 50
President: Chester A. Arthur
1885Died at 52
Karl Benz builds the first gasoline-powered automobile
President: Grover Cleveland
Key Achievements
- Commanded the 'Ever Victorious Army' in China from 1863-1864, playing a decisive role in quelling the Taiping Rebellion.
- Served as Governor-General of the Sudan from 1877 to 1880, where he worked to suppress the slave trade.
- His ten-month defense and death at the Siege of Khartoum in 1885 became a legendary episode in British imperial history.
- Was awarded the British Order of the Bath (CB) for his military services in China.
- His exploits were widely reported, making him one of the first 'media star' soldiers, with his image used in popular culture and advertising.
Did You Know?
He was a devout Christian and a confirmed celibate, dedicating himself to a life of service and asceticism.
He famously mapped Jerusalem in 1883, identifying sites he believed corresponded with biblical events.
He refused a financial reward from the Chinese emperor for his service, accepting only a gold medal.
He was known for his eccentricity, often going into battle carrying only a small cane instead of a weapon.
The Gordon Memorial College, founded in Khartoum after his death, later became the University of Khartoum.
““I am quite happy, thank God, and, like Lawrence, I have tried to do my duty.””
