The British Occupation of Egypt
The British occupation of Egypt was a significant period in the history of the Middle East, beginning in 1882 and lasting until the early 20th century. Here is a detailed account:
Background
By the late 19th century, Egypt's economy was under strain due to mismanagement, corruption, and heavy debts, particularly to European powers. The Ottoman Empire, which nominally ruled Egypt, was itself in decline, and its control over Egypt was increasingly nominal.
Events Leading to Occupation
- The Urabi Revolt: In 1881, Colonel Ahmed Urabi (also spelled as 'Urabi or Orabi) led a nationalist movement against the Khedive Tewfik Pasha, aiming to reform the administration and reduce foreign influence. This revolt alarmed European powers, particularly Britain and France, who had substantial investments in the Suez Canal and other Egyptian assets.
- The Bombardment of Alexandria: On July 11, 1882, British warships bombarded Alexandria after tensions escalated due to anti-foreign riots. This action was intended to protect British interests and to quell the revolt.
- Battle of Tel el-Kebir: The decisive battle took place on September 13, 1882, where British forces, under General Sir Garnet Wolseley, defeated the Egyptian army. This victory solidified British control over Egypt.
Occupation and Administration
After the Battle of Tel el-Kebir, Britain established a protectorate in all but name:
- Establishment of Control: Although Egypt remained officially part of the Ottoman Empire, British officials took over key administrative positions, effectively controlling the country's policies.
- Reforms: The British introduced reforms in finance, agriculture, education, and infrastructure, aiming to modernize Egypt and make it more efficient. These reforms were often met with mixed reactions from the local population.
- The Suez Canal: Control over this vital waterway was a primary motive for the British presence, ensuring secure passage for British ships to their colonies in India and East Asia.
Impact and Legacy
The British occupation had profound effects:
- Political Changes: The occupation laid the groundwork for nationalist movements within Egypt. Figures like Mustafa Kamil and later Saad Zaghloul emerged as leaders of the nationalist cause, leading to the Egyptian Revolution of 1919.
- Economic Impact: While there were economic improvements, the benefits were not evenly distributed, often favoring British interests over local development.
- Cultural Influence: British cultural and educational influences were significant, with English becoming widely spoken among the elite.
- End of Occupation: The British formally declared Egypt a protectorate in 1914 due to World War I and Ottoman alignment with Germany. After the war, pressure from Egyptian nationalists and international politics led to the Anglo-Egyptian Treaty of 1936, which allowed for the eventual withdrawal of British troops from Egypt except for the area around the Suez Canal. Complete withdrawal occurred in 1956 following the Suez Crisis.
External Links for Further Reading:
Related Topics: