Module 2 Modern Political History of Egypt

You might also like

Download as docx, pdf, or txt
Download as docx, pdf, or txt
You are on page 1of 10

Egyptian nationalism.

Egyptian nationalism is a political and cultural ideology that emphasizes the unity and identity of the
Egyptian people. It has historical roots dating back to the 19th century when Egyptians began to assert
their distinct national identity and demand independence from foreign powers. Prominent figures like
Saad Zaghloul played a key role in the early 20th century in the struggle for Egyptian sovereignty. Today,
Egyptian nationalism continues to be a significant force in the country’s politics and society, with a focus
on preserving Egyptian heritage and asserting independence.

Musthafa Kamil Pasha

Mustafa Kamil Pasha, also known as Mustafa Kamil, was a prominent Egyptian nationalist leader and
political figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He played a significant role in the Egyptian
nationalist movement during the period of British influence in Egypt. Here are some key points about
Mustafa Kamil:

Early Life: Mustafa Kamil was born on August 14, 1874, in the Nile Delta region of Egypt. He came from a
well-educated family, and his father was a prominent nationalist and reformist.

Nationalist Activism: Mustafa Kamil became a passionate advocate for Egyptian nationalism and political
reform at an early age. He was deeply influenced by the political ideas of the time, including concepts of
constitutionalism, nationalism, and independence.

Founder of Al-Liwa Newspaper: In 1900, Mustafa Kamil founded the influential newspaper "Al-Liwa" (The
Banner), which served as a platform for his nationalist ideas. The newspaper played a pivotal role in
spreading his message and mobilizing public opinion against British and foreign influence in Egypt.

Opposition to British Occupation: Egypt was effectively under British control during this period, although
it was technically part of the Ottoman Empire. Mustafa Kamil and his followers vehemently opposed
British occupation and called for an end to foreign influence in Egyptian affairs.

Demand for Constitutional Government: Mustafa Kamil advocated for constitutional government and the
establishment of a representative system in Egypt. He argued that Egyptians should have a say in their
governance and that foreign domination should be ended.

Popular Support: Mustafa Kamil's passionate speeches and writings resonated with many Egyptians, and
he gained widespread popular support. He used public gatherings and rallies to galvanize the nationalist
movement.

Death and Legacy: Tragically, Mustafa Kamil died at a young age on February 10, 1908, at the age of 33,
due to complications from a respiratory illness. His early death was a significant loss to the Egyptian
nationalist movement. However, his ideas and legacy continued to inspire future generations of Egyptian
nationalists in their struggle for independence and self-determination.

Mustafa Kamil's efforts and writings had a lasting impact on the Egyptian nationalist movement, and he
is remembered as one of its early leaders who laid the foundation for the later struggle for Egyptian
independence and sovereignty. His legacy remains an important part of Egypt's history.

Saad Zaghloul Pasha


Saad Zaghloul Pasha, often simply referred to as Saad Zaghloul, was a prominent Egyptian nationalist
leader and political figure in the early 20th century. He played a crucial role in the struggle for Egyptian
independence from British colonial rule and was a key architect of modern Egyptian nationalism. Here
are some key points about Saad Zaghloul:

Early Life: Saad Zaghloul was born on July 1, 1859, in Ibyana, a village in the Nile Delta region of Egypt.
He came from a humble background and pursued his education in Cairo, where he studied law and
graduated from Cairo University.

Legal and Political Career: Zaghloul began his career as a lawyer and later entered politics. He served in
various government positions, including as a judge, before becoming involved in nationalist activities.

Wafd Party: Zaghloul founded the Wafd Party (also spelled “Wafd” or “Al-Wafd”) in 1919. The Wafd Party
quickly became the leading nationalist political organization in Egypt, advocating for Egyptian
independence, constitutional government, and the end of British colonial rule.

1919 Revolution: The year 1919 marked a turning point in Egypt’s struggle for independence. Mass
protests and demonstrations erupted across Egypt in what became known as the 1919 Revolution.
Zaghloul and the Wafd Party led these protests, demanding self-determination for Egypt.

Deportation and International Support: In response to the 1919 Revolution, the British authorities in
Egypt deported Zaghloul and other Wafd leaders to the Seychelles Islands. However, their imprisonment
led to international support for the Egyptian nationalist cause, with protests and appeals from around
the world.

Return and Negotiations: In 1921, under mounting pressure and as a result of international negotiations,
Zaghloul and the Wafd leaders were released and allowed to return to Egypt. This marked a significant
victory for the nationalist movement.

Achieving Independence: Zaghloul’s leadership and the Wafd Party’s efforts contributed to the gradual
path to Egyptian independence. In 1922, Egypt was granted limited independence as a self-governing
kingdom with Sultan Fuad as king, although British influence continued to be present.

Later Life and Legacy: Saad Zaghloul served as Egypt’s Prime Minister in 1924 and 1926, playing a crucial
role in shaping the early years of Egypt’s independence. He passed away on August 23, 1927, and is
remembered as a national hero and a symbol of the struggle for Egyptian sovereignty.

Saad Zaghloul’s legacy as a nationalist leader remains deeply ingrained in Egypt’s history and identity. His
efforts and those of the Wafd Party paved the way for Egypt’s eventual full independence in 1952 and
the establishment of the modern Egyptian state.

Revolution of 1952.

the Egyptian Revolution of 1952, also known as the July 23 Revolution, was a pivotal event in Egypt's
modern history. Led by a group of nationalist military officers known as the Free Officers Movement, this
revolution resulted in the overthrow of King Farouk I and the establishment of a republic. Here are the
key points about the 1952 Revolution:
Background: Egypt had been under British influence and occupation since the late 19th century, and King
Farouk I, who ascended the throne in 1936, was seen as corrupt and ineffective. The country faced
political instability, economic problems, and dissatisfaction with the monarchy.

The Free Officers Movement: The Free Officers Movement was a clandestine group of nationalist military
officers led by General Muhammad Naguib and later, Colonel Gamal Abdel Nasser. They were deeply
influenced by Egyptian nationalism and sought to end British domination, eradicate corruption, and
address social and economic injustices.

July 23, 1952: The revolution began on July 23, 1952, with a coup d'état staged by the Free Officers
Movement. They took control of key government buildings and arrested prominent politicians and
officials, including Prime Minister Nahas Pasha.

Removal of King Farouk: The revolution culminated in the removal of King Farouk I from power. He was
sent into exile, and the monarchy was abolished. Egypt became a republic, ending centuries of rule by
the Muhammad Ali dynasty.

Leadership Transition: General Muhammad Naguib initially served as the first president of Egypt after
the revolution, but he was later replaced by Colonel Gamal Abdel Nasser in 1954. Nasser emerged as the
dominant figure in Egyptian politics and pursued a series of reforms and policies that shaped the
country's future.

Land Reform and Nationalization: Under Nasser's leadership, Egypt underwent significant changes,
including land reforms that redistributed agricultural land to peasants and the nationalization of key
industries, particularly the Suez Canal in 1956.

Regional and International Implications: Nasser's pan-Arabist and anti-imperialist policies had a profound
impact on the Arab world and Cold War geopolitics. Egypt became a leader in the Non-Aligned
Movement and played a prominent role in regional conflicts, including the Suez Crisis of 1956.

Legacy: The 1952 Revolution is seen as a watershed moment in Egypt's history. It ushered in a period of
nationalist and socialist policies, transforming the country's political, economic, and social landscape.
Gamal Abdel Nasser's charisma and leadership made him a beloved figure in Egypt and across the Arab
world, despite some controversial policies.

The Egyptian Revolution of 1952 marks a critical chapter in Egypt's journey toward independence and
modernization. It had far-reaching implications for the Middle East and the global balance of power
during the Cold War era.

The Republic and Gamal Abdul Nazar.

The establishment of the Republic of Egypt and the leadership of Gamal Abdel Nasser were closely
intertwined and played a central role in shaping modern Egypt’s political landscape. Here’s more
information about the Republic and Gamal Abdel Nasser.0

The Republic of Egypt (1953):

The Republic of Egypt was officially declared on June 18, 1953, following the Egyptian Revolution of
1952, which had overthrown King Farouk I and ended the monarchy.
General Muhammad Naguib served as Egypt’s first president after the revolution, but he was soon
sidelined by the Free Officers Movement, and Gamal Abdel Nasser emerged as the dominant figure.

Gamal Abdel Nasser:

Gamal Abdel Nasser was a charismatic and influential leader who played a pivotal role in shaping Egypt’s
political and social landscape from the 1950s until his death in 1970.

Nasser was born on January 15, 1918, in Alexandria, Egypt, and was educated at the Egyptian Military
Academy.

He was a key member of the Free Officers Movement and became Egypt’s second president in 1954 after
the removal of President Naguib.

Nasser’s presidency was characterized by a combination of Arab nationalism, socialism, and anti-
imperialism. His policies had a profound impact on Egypt and the wider Arab world:

Land Reform: Nasser implemented land reform measures, which redistributed land from large
landowners to peasant farmers, aiming to address rural poverty and inequality.

Nationalization: Nasser nationalized key industries, including the Suez Canal in 1956, which led to the
Suez Crisis. He also nationalized foreign-owned assets, asserting Egyptian control over the economy.

Pan-Arabism: Nasser championed pan-Arabism, advocating for Arab unity and solidarity. His leadership
made Egypt a focal point for pan-Arabist movements and ideology.

Foreign Policy: Nasser pursued a non-aligned foreign policy, seeking to maintain independence from
both Western and Eastern blocs during the Cold War.

Aswan High Dam: Nasser initiated the construction of the Aswan High Dam on the Nile River, a major
infrastructure project that aimed to control flooding, provide electricity, and expand agricultural land.

1967 Six-Day War: Nasser’s role in the buildup to the Six-Day War with Israel in 1967 and the subsequent
defeat led to a decline in his popularity, though he remained a symbol of Arab resistance.

Legacy:

Gamal Abdel Nasser’s legacy is complex. He is remembered as a nationalist hero who championed the
cause of Arab independence and social justice, but his policies also faced criticism for their impact on
Egypt’s economy and political freedoms.

Nasser’s leadership left an enduring mark on Egypt’s political identity, and he remains a highly respected
figure in the country’s history.

He died on September 28, 1970, and was succeeded by Anwar Sadat, who took a different approach to
governance and foreign policy, leading Egypt in a new direction.

In summary, the establishment of the Republic of Egypt in 1953 marked the end of the monarchy and
the beginning of a new era under the leadership of Gamal Abdel Nasser. Nasser’s presidency was
characterized by his charismatic leadership and a combination of Arab nationalism, socialism, and anti-
imperialism, which had a profound and lasting impact on Egypt and the broader Arab world.
Nationalisation of Suez Canal Company

The nationalization of the Suez Canal Company, officially known as the Suez Canal Company (Compagnie
Universelle du Canal Maritime de Suez), occurred in 1956 under the leadership of Egyptian President
Gamal Abdel Nasser. This event marked a significant turning point in the history of the Suez Canal and
had far-reaching international implications. Here are the key details of the nationalization of the Suez
Canal Company.

Background:

The Suez Canal, completed in 1869, was a crucial waterway that connected the Mediterranean Sea to
the Red Sea, allowing ships to bypass the lengthy and treacherous journey around the southern tip of
Africa.

The Suez Canal Company was originally controlled by French investors, and later, the British government
acquired a significant share in the company, effectively making it a British-French venture.

Nasser's Motives:

Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser was a charismatic nationalist leader who aimed to assert Egypt's
sovereignty and rid the country of foreign influence.

Nationalizing the Suez Canal Company was part of Nasser's broader agenda to gain control over strategic
national assets and use the revenue from canal tolls to fund ambitious domestic projects, particularly the
construction of the Aswan High Dam.

Nationalization Process:

On July 26, 1956, President Nasser announced the nationalization of the Suez Canal Company in a widely
celebrated move in Egypt.

Nasser argued that the nationalization was a response to the Western powers' refusal to finance the
construction of the Aswan High Dam, which he viewed as essential for Egypt's development.

The Egyptian government assumed control of the canal and its operations, ending the foreign ownership
and management of the waterway.

International Reaction:

The nationalization of the Suez Canal Company triggered a significant international crisis. The British and
French governments, along with Israel, opposed Nasser's actions and planned a military intervention in
Egypt.

In late 1956, Israel invaded the Sinai Peninsula, followed by British and French forces launching military
operations against Egypt, which became known as the Suez Crisis or Suez War.

Outcome:

The Suez Crisis led to international pressure, particularly from the United States and the Soviet Union, to
resolve the situation and withdraw foreign forces from Egypt.
In March 1957, under intense diplomatic pressure, British, French, and Israeli forces withdrew from
Egyptian territory.

Egypt retained control of the Suez Canal, and the nationalization was ultimately successful, securing
Egyptian sovereignty over this vital waterway.

Long-Term Impact:

The nationalization of the Suez Canal Company was a significant victory for Nasser and marked a symbol
of Egypt's struggle for independence from Western powers.

It contributed to the decline of traditional colonial powers and highlighted the influence of the United
States and the Soviet Union in global politics.

The Suez Crisis had a lasting impact on the Middle East's geopolitics and played a role in 9shaping the
Cold War dynamics in the region.

In summary, the nationalization of the Suez Canal Company by Gamal Abdel Nasser in 1956 was a pivotal
event that asserted Egypt's control over this strategically important waterway, with profound
international consequences during the Cold War era.

UAR United Arab republic

The United Arab Republic (UAR) was a short-lived political union that existed from 1958 to 1961 between
two Arab countries: Egypt and Syria. It was a significant event in the history of Arab nationalism and the
pursuit of Arab unity. Here are key details about the United Arab Republic.

Formation of the United Arab Republic:

The United Arab Republic was officially established on February 1, 1958, when Egypt and Syria merged to
form a single state. Gamal Abdel Nasser, the President of Egypt, was a key proponent of Arab nationalism
and played a central role in the union's creation.

Leadership:

Gamal Abdel Nasser became the first President of the United Arab Republic, and he continued to serve
as President of Egypt.

The Syrian leadership was initially represented by a regional leader, Shukri al-Quwatli, who served as
President of Syria.

Goals and Ideology:

The union was motivated by the principles of pan-Arabism and the desire for greater Arab unity. Leaders
like Nasser saw it as a step toward achieving a unified Arab nation that could stand up to outside
influences and threats.

The UAR aimed to promote common political, economic, and social policies, as well as shared defense
and foreign policies.

Challenges and Dissolution:


Despite the idealistic goals of the UAR, the union faced significant challenges. Cultural, political, and
economic differences between Egypt and Syria, as well as disagreements over the distribution of power,
hindered the union's effectiveness.

In 1961, a coup in Syria led by the Ba'ath Party resulted in the secession of Syria from the UAR,
effectively ending the union. This event marked the dissolution of the United Arab Republic.

Legacy:

While the United Arab Republic was relatively short-lived, it left a lasting impact on the Arab world. It
inspired future attempts at Arab unity and encouraged the idea of a common Arab identity.

The concept of pan-Arabism, which seeks to unite all Arabic-speaking peoples, continued to influence
political thought in the region.

Gamal Abdel Nasser, despite the dissolution of the UAR, remained a symbol of Arab nationalism and
anti-imperialism in the Arab world.

In summary, the United Arab Republic was a bold attempt to unite Egypt and Syria under a single state in
the name of Arab nationalism. Although it faced challenges and ultimately dissolved, it left a legacy of
striving for Arab unity and greater cooperation among Arab states.

Muslim Brotherhood

The Muslim Brotherhood, also known as the Society of the Muslim Brothers (Jamiat al-Ikhwan al-
Muslimin), is a transnational Sunni Islamist organization with a long and complex history. It was founded
in 1928 in Egypt by Hassan al-Banna and has since expanded its influence across various Muslim-majority
countries. Here are key points about the Muslim Brotherhood:

1. Founding and Ideology:

The Muslim Brotherhood was established as a response to perceived Westernization, secularism, and
the erosion of Islamic values in Egyptian society during the early 20th century.

Its core ideology combines political activism with a commitment to Islam as a comprehensive way of life,
seeking to establish Islamic law (Sharia) as the basis for governance.

2. Political Activism:

The Muslim Brotherhood has historically been involved in politics, aiming to influence government
policies and institutions in accordance with its Islamist ideology.

It has participated in elections in various countries, including Egypt, where its political arm, the Freedom
and Justice Party, won the majority in the 2012 parliamentary elections and its candidate, Mohamed
Morsi, became Egypt's president.

3. Social Services:

Beyond politics, the Muslim Brotherhood has been known for its extensive social and charitable work. It
has operated schools, hospitals, and other social service organizations in several countries.

4. Legal Status and Repression:


The Muslim Brotherhood has faced periods of political repression in many countries where it operates.
In Egypt, for example, it was officially banned for decades, intermittently allowed and banned again.

Several countries have labeled the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization, while others have
allowed its participation in politics.

5. Divisions and Conflicts:

Over the years, the Muslim Brotherhood has experienced internal divisions and ideological debates.
Differences in strategy, the approach to political power, and relations with secular and other religious
groups have caused internal tensions.

6. Global Presence:

The Muslim Brotherhood has a presence in various countries across the Muslim world. It has spawned
various branches and affiliates in different regions, often with distinct agendas and levels of political
influence.

7. Notable Figures:

Prominent figures associated with the Muslim Brotherhood include its founder, Hassan al-Banna, as well
as Sayyid Qutb, whose writings had a significant influence on contemporary Islamist movements.

Mohamed Morsi, who briefly served as Egypt's president, was a member of the Muslim Brotherhood.

8. Arab Spring and Aftermath:

The Arab Spring uprisings of 2011 led to the rise of Islamist political parties in several countries, including
the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt. However, this period was marked by political turbulence and
controversy.

In 2013, following mass protests, the Egyptian military removed President Morsi from power, leading to
a crackdown on the Muslim Brotherhood and its supporters.

The Muslim Brotherhood remains a highly influential and controversial organization in the Islamic world.
Its impact on politics, society, and governance varies from country to country, and it continues to be a
subject of debate and discussion in the context of political Islam and Islamist movements.

Anwar Sadat

Anwar Sadat was the third president of Egypt, serving from 1970 until his assassination in 1981. He was a
member of the Free Officers Movement, which overthrew King Farouk I in 1952. Sadat served as Vice
President under Gamal Abdel Nasser from 1964 to 1970, and succeeded him as president after Nasser's
death.

Sadat's presidency was marked by a number of significant events, including the Yom Kippur War in 1973,
the Camp David Accords in 1978, and the Egypt–Israel peace treaty in 1979. The Yom Kippur War was a
surprise attack by Egypt and Syria on Israel, which led to a stalemate. The war ended with a cease-fire,
and Sadat was able to use the war to negotiate a peace agreement with Israel.
The Camp David Accords were a series of agreements signed by Egypt and Israel in 1978. The
agreements led to the return of the Sinai Peninsula to Egypt, and they were a major step towards peace
in the Middle East. The Egypt–Israel peace treaty was signed in 1979, and it was the first peace treaty
between an Arab country and Israel.

Sadat's peace efforts with Israel were controversial in the Arab world, and he was assassinated by Islamic
extremists in 1981. He was posthumously awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1981.

Sadat's legacy is mixed. He is credited with ending the state of war between Egypt and Israel, but he is
also criticized for his authoritarian rule and his close ties to the United States.

Major achievements:

 Ended the state of war between Egypt and Israel


 Signed the Camp David Accords and the Egypt–Israel peace treaty
 Modernized the Egyptian economy
 Improved relations with the United States
 Controversies
 Authoritarian rule
 Close ties to the United States
 Assassination by Islamic extremists

Egypt and Israel relationship.

Egypt–Israel relations are foreign relations between Egypt and Israel. The state of war between both
countries which dated back to the 1948 Arab–Israeli War culminated in the Yom Kippur War in 1973, and
was followed by the 1979 Egypt–Israel peace treaty a year after the Camp David Accords, mediated by
U.S. president Jimmy Carter. Full diplomatic relations were established on January 26, 1980, and the
formal exchange of ambassadors took place one month later, on February 26, 1980, with Eliyahu Ben-
Elissar serving as the first Israeli Ambassador to Egypt, and Saad Mortada as the first Egyptian
Ambassador to Israel.

The peace treaty between Egypt and Israel was a landmark event in the Middle East conflict, and it has
helped to maintain stability in the region for over 40 years. However, the relationship between the two
countries remains complex and multifaceted.

Security cooperation:

One of the most important aspects of the Egypt–Israel relationship is security cooperation. The two
countries have a shared interest in combating terrorism and extremism, and they work together to
counter threats to regional stability. For example, Egypt has helped to mediate ceasefires between Israel
and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, and it has also played a role in preventing the spread of ISIS in the Sinai
Peninsula.

Economic cooperation:

Egypt and Israel also have significant economic ties. The two countries have signed a number of trade
agreements, and they are working together to develop new energy projects. For example, Israel is
currently exporting natural gas to Egypt, and the two countries are also exploring the possibility of
building a joint underwater electricity cable.

Public opinion:

Despite the close security and economic cooperation between Egypt and Israel, public opinion in both
countries remains divided on the relationship. In Egypt, a majority of the population still views Israel
with suspicion, and there is a strong sense of solidarity with the Palestinians. In Israel, there is also a
significant amount of public skepticism about the peace treaty, and many Israelis believe that Egypt is
not a reliable partner.

Challenges:

The Egypt–Israel relationship faces a number of challenges, including the ongoing Israeli–Palestinian
conflict, the rise of extremism in the region, and the economic challenges facing both countries.
However, the relationship has proven to be resilient over the past 40 years, and it remains an important
cornerstone of regional stability.

Recent developments:

In recent years, the Egypt–Israel relationship has deepened, particularly on the security front. The two
countries have worked closely to combat terrorism in the Sinai Peninsula, and Egypt has played a key role
in mediating ceasefires between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. In 2021, Egypt also played a key role
in helping to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, ending the 11-day war in Gaza.

The economic relationship between Egypt and Israel has also grown in recent years. In 2020, the two
countries signed a $15 billion agreement for Israel to export natural gas to Egypt. Egypt is also working to
develop its own tourism industry, and it is hoping to attract more Israeli tourists.

Despite the deepening relationship between the two governments, public opinion in Egypt towards
Israel remains largely negative. A 2021 poll found that only 13% of Egyptians support diplomatic
recognition of Israel. However, the Egyptian government has taken steps to try to improve public opinion
towards Israel, such as opening a new Israeli cultural center in Cairo.

Overall, the Egypt–Israel relationship is complex and multifaceted. The two countries have a close
security and economic relationship, but public opinion in both countries remains divided on the
relationship. The relationship faces a number of challenges, but it remains an important cornerstone of
regional stability.

You might also like