Outline
Early history Christian kingdoms Islamization and Arabization Turkiyya and Mahdiyya British rule Independence Islamist rule: 1989-present Civil war in Southern Sudan Darfur
Early History
Numerous Nubian kingdoms along the Nile: Kingdoms of Kush (Cush), known from pottery and Egyptian records Kush conquers Egypt (743bc and rule until 644bc). Largest unified state in the world at the time. Assyrians drive Kush pharoah Taharqo back to 4th cataract (Napata/Merowe) Arabs conquer Egypt 640ad. Treaty of baqt in 641ad with Nubia: Interpretation disputed, but seems to involve tribute from Nubia to Egypt
Cultivated close relationships with religious leaders (descendants of Mahdi and Khatmiyya); the families of those leaders are still the most important ruling families in Sudan Promoted more schooling in the North Gordon College and encouraged a growing Sudanese civil service to replace Egyptians