During World War II, British troops used Egypt as a base for Allied operations throughout the region. British troops were withdrawn to the Suez Canal area in 1947, but nationalist, anti-British feelings continued to grow after the war. The 1952 coup overthrew the Egyptian monarchy and established the modern Republic of Egypt.
Why did the British leave Egypt in 1952?
It was not until 1952 that the British military left the country and ended its imperialist aims. With cotton as its most important cash crop, Egypt took advantage of the global cotton market during the American Civil War and the Depression of 1873 by selling cotton to meet a growing demand.
What happened to Egypt after World War II?
During World War II, British troops used Egypt as a base for Allied operations throughout the region. British troops were withdrawn to the Suez Canal area in 1947, but nationalist, anti-British feelings continued to grow after the war. The 1952 coup overthrew the Egyptian monarchy and established the modern Republic of Egypt.
What was the British policy in Egypt during WW2?
During World War II, Egypt was a major Allied base for the North African campaign. After the war, British policy continued to focus on control of the Suez Canal, which was vital for imperial trade. However, during World War II, Egyptian nationalists within the armed forces gained influence.
When did the British conquest of Egypt occur?
The British Conquest of Egypt occurred in 1882. "British Egypt" redirects here. For the British civil occupation of Egypt before World War I, see Khedivate of Egypt. For the British protectorate, see Sultanate of Egypt. For the technically independent state under de facto British rule, see Kingdom of Egypt (1922–1953).
Who was the king of Egypt in 1952?
Farouk of EgyptFarouk I فاروقFarouk I in military uniform (1946)King of Egypt and the SudanReign28 April 1936 – 26 July 1952Coronation29 July 193716 more rows
Who took control of Egypt in 1952 with plans to eliminate imperialism in the country?
The history of Egypt under Gamal Abdel Nasser covers the period of Egyptian history from the Egyptian Revolution of 1952, of which Gamal Abdel Nasser was one of the two principal leaders, spanning Nasser's presidency of Egypt from 1956 to his death in 1970.
Who ruled Egypt in 1953?
Kingdom of EgyptKingdom of Egypt المملكة المصرية (Arabic) Al-Mamlaka Al-Miṣreyya• 1922–1936Fuad I• 1936–1952Farouk I• 1952–1953Fuad II aBritish High Commissioner51 more rows
How did Egypt gain independence from Britain?
Nonviolent boycotts, petitions, pamphleteering, demonstrations, and a sustained general strike by students, professionals, and workers forced the British to declare limited independence for Egypt on February 28, 1922.
When did Egypt gain independence from Britain?
Therefore, when Zaghlul and his team were exiled to Malta, Egypt rose in their first revolution which resulted in their independence from the British on February 22, 1922. A new government was formed, and they drafted their constitution by 1923. In 1924, Zaghlul became the first Egyptian prime minister.
Why did Britain invade Egypt?
The 1956 Suez Crisis, when Britain along with France and Israel invaded Egypt to recover control of the Suez Canal, was arguably one of the most significant episodes in post-1945 British history. Its outcome highlighted Britain's declining status and confirmed it as a 'second tier' world power.
What was Egypt like in the 1950s?
Egypt was clean Given the number of the population, Egypt was a clean country in the 50s, which benefited from the legacy of King Farouk who was said to have ordered the washing of Cairo's streets every day in the 40s. Also, the number of cars and means of transportation was much less than the current number.
Who seized control of Egypt in 1954?
On July 26, 1956, Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser announced the nationalization of the Suez Canal Company, the joint British-French enterprise which had owned and operated the Suez Canal since its construction in 1869.
When did the British conquer Egypt?
The British Conquest of Egypt occurred in 1882. The history of Egypt under the British lasts from 1882, when it was occupied by British forces during the Anglo-Egyptian War, until 1956 after the Suez Crisis, when the last British forces withdrew in accordance with the Anglo-Egyptian agreement of 1954.
When did Egypt become occupied by the British?
t. e. The history of Egypt under the British lasts from 1882, when it was occupied by British forces during the Anglo-Egyptian War, until 1956 after the Suez Crisis, when the last British forces withdrew in accordance with the Anglo-Egyptian agreement of 1954. The first period of British rule (1882–1914) is often called the "veiled protectorate ".
What was the first period of British rule?
The first period of British rule (1882–1914) is often called the "veiled protectorate ". During this time the Khedivate of Egypt remained an autonomous province of the Ottoman Empire, and the British occupation had no legal basis but constituted a de facto protectorate over the country.
What was the most powerful Arab country in 1882?
However, by 1882 Islamic and Arabic Nationalist opposition to European influence and settlement in the Middle East led to growing tension amongst notable natives, especially in Egypt which then as now was the most powerful, populous, and influential of Arab countries.
Why did Egypt come under attack?
During the Second World War (1939–45), Egypt came under attack from Italian Libya on account of the British presence there, although Egypt itself remained neutral until late in the war. After the war Egypt sought to modify the treaty, but it was abrogated in its entirety by an anti-British government in October 1951.
What was the ruling dynasty of Egypt's economic development?
In keeping with its own military and foreign origin, the dynasty's economic development was almost wholly oriented toward military dual-use goals. Consequently, despite vast sums of European and other foreign capital, actual economic production and resulting revenues were insufficient to repay the loans. Eventually, the country teetered toward economic dissolution and implosion. In turn, European and foreign finances took control of the treasury of Egypt, forgave debt in return for taking control of the Suez Canal, and reoriented economic development toward capital gain.
Why was the Milner Commission sent to Egypt?
In November 1919, the Milner Commission was sent to Egypt by the British to attempt to resolve the situation. In 1920, Lord Milner submitted his report to Lord Curzon, the British Foreign Secretary, recommending that the protectorate should be replaced by a treaty of alliance.
Causes
In 1882, British forces intervened in Egypt during the Anglo-Egyptian War. In 1888 at the Convention of Constantinople, Britain won the right to protect the Suez Canal with military force, giving Britain a base to dominate Egyptian politics. Though nominally still an Ottoman vassal, Egypt became a British protectorate.
Prelude
During the winter of 1951–1952 nationalist police officers began protecting and promoting fedayeen (the Egyptian resistance) attacks on British authorities in Cairo, Alexandria, and the Suez Canal.
Revolution
Members of the Free Officers gathered after the revolution. From left to right: Zakaria Mohieddin, Abdel Latif Boghdadi, Kamel el-Din Hussein, Gamal Abdel Nasser (seated), Abdel Hakim Amer, Muhammad Naguib, Youssef Seddik and Ahmed Shawki
Consolidation
Members of the Free Officers welcomed by crowds in Cairo in January 1953. Standing in the automobile, from left to right: Youssef Seddik, Salah Salem, Gamal Abdel Nasser and Abdel Latif Boghdadi
Commemoration
The anniversary of the revolution is commemorated on Revolution Day, an annual public holiday in Egypt, on 23 July.
External links
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Category:1952 Egyptian revolution.
What was the British protectorate of Egypt?
The British established a protectorate over Egypt at the start of World War I in 1914. The increasing presence and power of the British in Egypt fueled a spirit of nationalism among Egyptians social classes, leading to the creation of anti-British, nationalist independence parties. The desire for independence from the British sparked the Egyptian Revolution of 1919. U.S. President Woodrow Wilson's words advocating for the "self-determination of all peoples" gave hope to many Egyptian nationalists seeking independence. A delegation of Egyptian politicians, led by Sa'ad Zaghlul, a prominent member of the Egyptian elite and former education minister, petitioned Cairo's British high commissioner for permission to go to the next Paris Peace Conference to make Egypt's case. Instead of giving permission, the British arrested and exiled Zaghlul and his compatriots.
What happened in 1919 in Egypt?
For two months in the spring of 1919, students, peasants, the urban poor, civil servants and others protested across Egypt, disrupting railroad lines and creating upheaval.
How did Egypt take advantage of the global cotton market?
With cotton as its most important cash crop, Egypt took advantage of the global cotton market during the American Civil War and the Depression of 1873 by selling cotton to meet a growing demand. However, during this period, the Egyptian government also borrowed heavily from European countries for internal improvements; when the price of cotton fell, Egypt had already borrowed money to the point of bankruptcy in 1876. As a consequence, a group of European states established a debt repayment agency called the "Caisse de la Dette," with British and French controllers monitoring Egypt's revenue and expenditures.
What was the effect of British imperialism on Egypt?
Under British imperialism, which began in Egypt in 1882, the nation experienced extreme hardship and a suffocation of liberties. The British military took control of existing political structures and economies while Egypt's Ottoman rulers, the khedives, provided a facade of native autonomy.
What was the cause of the Egyptian Revolution of 1919?
The desire for independence from the British sparked the Egyptian Revolution of 1919. U.S. President Woodrow Wilson's words advocating for the "self-determination of all peoples" gave hope to many Egyptian nationalists seeking independence.
What was the impact of the British occupation of Egypt?
In 1881, Colonel Ahmad 'Urabi of the Egyptian military led a mutiny against European encroachment. To protect its financial and geopolitical interests in the region, the British sent a flotilla to establish British occupation over the country. This maneuver reduced the size of the Egyptian military and placed British officers in command, appointed British ministers to control all parts of the Egyptian government, and imposed new laws on the Egyptian people. The British also restricted Egypt's economic development and educational systems. This allowed the British to control all aspects of Egyptian life, politics and economy.
Why did the British send a flotilla to Egypt?
To protect its financial and geopolitical interests in the region, the British sent a flotilla to establish British occupation over the country. This maneuver reduced the size of the Egyptian military and placed British officers in command, appointed British ministers to control all parts of the Egyptian government, ...
When did the British take over Egypt?
The British government proposed a new draft treaty with Egypt on July 18, 1927, which called for British military occupation of Egypt for ten more years. Saad Zaghlul Pasha died on August 23, 1927, and Mustafa al-Nahhas Pasha was chosen as the new leader of the Wafd Party in September 1927.
Why did the British remain in Egypt?
British troops remained in the country following Egypt’s independence in order to protect British interests, including the Suez Canal. Ahmed Faud, who became Sultan of Egypt following the death of Sultan Hussein Kamil on October 9, 1917, assumed the title of King Faud I on March 15, 1922. Prime Minister Abdel Khaliq Sarwat Pasha resigned on ...
What party won the 1942 parliamentary elections?
Parliamentary elections were held in March 1942, and the Wafd Party won 240 out of 264 seats in the Chamber of Deputies. The Liberal Constitutional Party (LCP) won four seats in the Chamber of Deputies. Most opposition political parties boycotted the parliamentary elections.
When did Mustafa al-Nahhas Pasha become Prime Minister?
Mustafa al-Nahhas Pasha formed a government as prime minister on January 1, 1930, and the government resumed negotiations with Britain in London on March 27, 1930. Prime Minister al-Nahhas Pasha submitted his resignation on June 17, 1930, and King Faud I appointed Ismail Sidqi Pasha as prime minister on June 20, 1930.
What was the post crisis period in 1923?
Post-Crisis Phase (July 6 , 1923-July 18, 1928): Parliamentary elections were held on September 27, 1923 and January 12, 1924, and the Nationalist Party (Wafd Party) won 188 out of 214 seats in the House of Representatives. Saad Zaghlul Pasha, the leader of the Wafd Party, formed a government as prime minister on January 28, 1924.
How many people died in the 2013 Cairo clash?
Government troops clashed with supporters of former President Mohammed Morsi in Cairo on July 8, 2013, resulting in the deaths of at least 51 individuals. Seven individuals were killed during clashes between government security forces and supporters of former President Mohammed Morsi in Cairo on July 15-16, 2013.
How many people died in the Black Sunday attacks?
Muslim Brotherhood (MB) members organized the “Black Sunday” attacks in Cairo on January 25, 1952, resulting in the deaths of 30 individuals. Some 20 individuals were killed during rioting in Cairo on January 26, 1952, and Prime Minister al-Nahhas Pasha was replaced by Ali Maher Pasha on January 27, 1952.
When did the Egyptians attack the British?
On 16 October 1951 Egyptians stormed the Army's Naafi storehouses in Ismailia. A British soldier was stabbed and two Egyptians were killed in clashes. Egyptian volunteers rushed to join the Liberation Battalions, as the Muslim Brotherhood branch in Ismailia declared a jihad against the British.
What was the treaty between Egypt and the British?
In 1936 a treaty was signed with Egypt that agreed the British could stay in the country but concentrated in the Suez Canal Zone, an area running along the length of the waterway. "Britain needed Egypt and the Suez very, very badly... it wasn't going to give it up lightly," said author and historian Dr Colin Shindler.
Why were British soldiers sent to Egypt?
Sixty-five years ago thousands of British conscripts were sent to Egypt to defend the Suez Canal in the wake of rising Egyptian nationalism. Poorly trained and under-equipped, they faced a brutal and bloody situation, protecting British interests in a conflict they wanted no part of.
What was the Suez Emergency?
The Suez Emergency: The forgotten war of the conscript soldier. Sixty-five years ago thousands of British conscripts were sent to Egypt to defend the Suez Canal in the wake of rising Egyptian nationalism. Poorly trained and under-equipped, they faced a brutal and bloody situation, protecting British interests in a conflict they wanted no part of. ...
How many British troops were mobilised in 10 days?
image caption. More than 60,000 troops were mobilised in just 10 days to shore up the British troops already based in the Suez Canal Zone. On the front line and defending the dying days of Britain's colonial interest in Egypt were men like Emmanuel Clark, who was 18 when he was called up for national service in 1951.
How old was Emmanuel Clark when he was sent to Egypt?
image caption. Emmanuel Clark was 18 years old when he was sent to Egypt. In the years after World War Two the British government was struggling to maintain its colonial empire in Egypt and beyond; national servicemen were seen as having a crucial role in keeping control.
When was the Suez Canal declared void?
Suez Canal Zone. In 1951, Egypt declared void the Anglo-Egyptian Treaty of 1936 that had granted Britain a lease on the Suez base for a further 20 years. Tensions led to the declaration of an emergency period until 1954. In October 1956, the British and French-owned canal was nationalised by the Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser, ...
Overview
The Egyptian Revolution of 1952 (Arabic: ثورة 23 يوليو 1952), also known as the 23 July Revolution, was a period of profound political, economic, and societal change in Egypt that began on 23 July 1952 with the toppling of King Farouk in a coup d'etat by the Free Officers Movement, a group of army officers led by Mohamed Naguib and Gamal Abdel Nasser. The Revolution ushered in a wave o…
Background and Causes
The history of Egypt during the 19th and early 20th centuries was defined by the vastly different reigns of successive members of the Muhammad Ali dynasty, and the gradually increasing intrusion in to Egyptian affairs of the Great Powers, particularly the United Kingdom. From 1805, Egypt underwent a period of rapid modernisation under Muhammad Ali Pasha, who declared himself Khedive in defiance of his nominal suzerain, the Ottoman Sultan. Within a matter of deca…
Prelude
During the winter of 1951–1952 nationalist police officers began protecting and promoting fedayeen (the Egyptian resistance) attacks on British authorities in Cairo, Alexandria, and the Suez Canal (Suez). After repelling a particularly devastating attack on British shipping and facilities near Ismailia which resulted in the death of several British soldiers, British troops tracked the fedayeen into the city. On 25 January 1952, British troops discovered the fedayeen had retreated into the l…
Military coup
While the Free Officers planned to overthrow the monarchy on 2–3 August, they decided to make their move earlier after their official leader, Muhammad Naguib, gained knowledge, leaked from the Egyptian cabinet on 19 July, that King Farouk acquired a list of the dissenting officers and was set to arrest them. The officers thus decided to launch a preemptive strike and after finalizing the…
Consolidation
The Revolution Command Council (RCC), made up of the previous nine-member command committee of the Free Officers in addition to five more members, chaired by Naguib, was formed. Ali Maher was asked to form a civilian government. When the Free Officers started isolating elements sympathizing with the Soviet Union, communist cadres led workers riots in Kafr Dawar on 12 …
Commemoration
The anniversary of the revolution is commemorated on Revolution Day, an annual public holiday in Egypt, on 23 July.
See also
• Project FF
• Nasserism
• Egyptian Revolution of 1919
• 2011 Egyptian revolution
• June 2013 Egyptian protests
Further reading
• Watry, David M. Diplomacy at the Brink: Eisenhower, Churchill, and Eden in the Cold War. Baton Rouge: Louisiana State University Press, 2014.
Origins of British Imperialism
The Urabi Revolt and Consequences
Growing Discontent
- During the winter of 1951–1952 nationalist police officers began protecting and promoting fedayeen (the Egyptian resistance) attacks on British authorities in Cairo, Alexandria, and the Suez Canal. After repelling a particularly devastating attack on British shipping and facilities near Ismailia which resulted in the death of several British soldie...
Conditional Independence
End of The British Presence in Egypt