Muhammad Ahmad (Mahdi)

Muhammad Ahmad (Mahdi) was a Sudanese religious leader in the late 19th century who proclaimed himself the Mahdi, meaning "guided one," a messianic figure in Islamic belief. He led a revolt against Ottoman-Egyptian rule and aimed to establish an Islamic state based on strict religious principles. His movement attracted many followers who believed he fulfilled Islamic prophecies of a messianic leader. In 1885, he successfully took control of parts of Sudan, creating a short-lived Mahdist government. His leadership profoundly impacted Sudanese history, inspiring future movements and contributing to the region’s struggle for independence.