African Tribes/The Inhabitants of the Southern and Western Provinces and the Egyptian Administration in Sudan (1821-1885 AD)

Abstract

This research examines the complex relationship between the Egyptian Administration that ruled Sudan (1821–1885 AD) and the African tribes residing in the Southern and Western provinces. The study demonstrates that Egyptian rule, which began with Muhammad Ali's annexation of Sudan, succeeded in achieving an unprecedented political unity and established a unified administrative system similar to that of Egypt, despite the immense geographical and human diversity.

However, the relationship between the two parties was defined by conflict, as the Egyptian Administration faced significant difficulties in subjugating these tribes, particularly in areas like the Nuba Mountains, Kordofan, and Fashoda. This necessitated the use of military force to impose its authority, collect taxes, and curb the slave trade. The research also sheds light on the role of prominent figures, such as Al-Zubayr Pasha, in expanding influence in those provinces, indicating that this era was a mixture of efforts to establish civilization and organization versus fierce resistance from the local population.