EGYPT REDPATH

Egypt pair to Pte. James Redpath, 19th Hussars who saw action at the Battle of Abu Klea.

Egypt Medal reverse dated 1882 officially named to: 2162 PTE. J. REDPATH. 19TH HUSSARS

Clasps for Suakin 1884, El-Teb _Tamaai, The Nile 1884-85 and Abu Klea.

Khedive’s Star 1882 unnamed as issued.

Very slight pitting from Star, Very fine.

James Redpath was born in Newcastle 1863. He attested for the 19th Hussars 18th Feb. 1882.

The Battle of Abu Klea, fought on January 17, 1885, was a significant engagement during the British relief expedition aimed at rescuing General Charles Gordon, who was besieged in Khartoum, Sudan. Commanded by Major General Herbert Stewart, the British forces encountered a large contingent of Mahdists at the Abu Tulieh wells, approximately 120 miles north of Khartoum. The battle marked a critical moment as the British square formation, historically thought to be formidable, was breached by an unexpected assault from 6,000 Mahdists emerging from a dry riverbed. Despite suffering heavy casualties, the Mahdists faced fierce resistance, leading to significant losses on their side, with around 1,100 killed compared to fewer than 200 British casualties. The battle also saw the death of notable figures such as Colonel Fred Burnaby, who was known for his adventurous exploits. Ultimately, the expedition, unable to save Gordon, retreated to Egypt, and the campaign highlighted the limitations of technological superiority in warfare. The aftermath of Abu Klea had a profound impact on public sentiment in Britain, though the lessons learned from the engagement were largely overlooked.