Fin vs History A Non-Offending Homosexual | Gordon of Khartoum (Part 1)
Jan 26, 2026
A cheeky dive into General Gordon’s life, from his war obsession and religiosity to his awkward social behaviour. They tease his roles in Crimea, China and the Taiping Rebellion. Discussion touches on repression, Victorian attitudes to sexuality, imperial violence and his odd charity work. Fast, irreverent takes on mythmaking and military spectacle.
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Young Gordon Wanted Glory And Hardship
- Gordon preferred physical hardship over socialising and sought combat as a youthful lieutenant.
- The hosts describe his eagerness for war and a near-death longing during the Crimean posting.
Sexuality Framed Through Victorian Lens
- The hosts frame Gordon's sexuality as a recurring contextual theme.
- They describe him as a 'non-offending homosexual' reflecting Victorian repression and personal restraint.
Give Aggressive Soldiers Constructive Outlets
- When skilled fighters lack outlets they become dangerous within civilian life.
- Provide structured roles or deployments to channel aggressive talents productively, the hosts suggest.