Explore the extraordinary life of Major-General Charles George Gordon, one of Victorian Britain's most illustrious military figures.
This captivating narrative chronicles Gordon's action-packed exploits in the Crimea, China, and the Sudan during an era of imperial expansion, making it essential reading for enthusiasts of Julian Symons, Charles C Trench, Richard Garrett, and Mike Snook. Born into a family steeped in military tradition, Gordon inherited a legacy of service, with his father a General and all his brothers army officers. Demonstrating exceptional skills in map-making and fortification design, he joined the Royal Engineers and embarked on his first active duty in the Crimea, notably participating in the renowned siege of Sevastopol. His military career extended to commanding the 'Ever Victorious Army' in China and serving in Egypt and Sudan. In 1884, Gordon was dispatched to Khartoum to oversee the evacuation of civilians and soldiers threatened by a Muslim revolt. There, he courageously confronted his fate, meeting his famous and untimely demise. Drawing from contemporary sources such as Gordon's war diaries, eyewitness testimonies, and newspaper articles, McKee delivers a meticulous portrayal of this deeply religious and enigmatic soldier - a legendary figure in British history.