In the 19th century, Sudan was a region marked by diverse cultures and ethnic groups, including the Nubians, Beja, and Arabs. The area was primarily agricultural, with the Nile River playing a crucial role in supporting farming and trade. During this time, Sudan experienced significant political changes, including the rise of the Mahdist State in the late 1880s. This movement sought to establish an Islamic state and resist foreign influence, particularly from Egypt and Britain. The Mahdist forces eventually captured Khartoum in 1885, leading to a period of conflict and transformation in the region.