Egypt Map Under British Occupation
Introduction
The British occupation of Egypt, a pivotal event in the country’s modern history, began in 1882 and lasted until the mid-20th century. During this period, Egypt’s geopolitical landscape underwent significant transformations, which can be traced through the changes in its political map. This article delves into the geopolitical aspects of Egypt under British control, particularly focusing on the early 20th century, providing an in-depth understanding of the political and territorial changes that occurred during this era.
The British Invasion and Occupation
The British invasion of Egypt in 1882 was primarily driven by the need to protect the Suez Canal, a crucial strategic asset connecting Europe to its colonies in Asia. The British forces led by General Herbert Kitchener successfully ousted the Egyptian Army under Arabi Pasha, who was seen as a threat to British interests. Consequently, the United Kingdom established a protectorate over Egypt, with the Anglo-Egyptian Treaty of 1904 formalizing the British occupation.
The Sudanese Question
One of the significant territorial changes during the British occupation involved Sudan. Egypt had been under Ottoman suzerainty since the 16th century, and Sudan was an integral part of this arrangement. However, the Anglo-Egyptian invasion of Sudan in 1898, led by Kitchener, resulted in the Anglo-Egyptian Condominium Agreement of 1899. This agreement divided the administration of Sudan between the United Kingdom and Egypt, with the British taking control of the country’s foreign affairs, defense, and finance.
The Sinai Peninsula and the Palestine Question
During the British occupation, the Sinai Peninsula emerged as a strategically vital region due to its proximity to Palestine and the Suez Canal. In 1906, the Anglo-French Entente Cordiale was signed, which established a clear understanding between the two powers regarding their respective spheres of influence in the Middle East. Britain was granted control over Egypt and the Suez Canal, while France secured its interests in Lebanon and Syria.
This agreement led to increased British presence in the Sinai Peninsula, as they sought to safeguard their strategic interests in the region. The British also played a crucial role in the ongoing conflict between the Ottoman Empire and the local Arab population in Palestine. During World War I, the British government issued the Balfour Declaration in 1917, promising the establishment of a “national home for the Jewish people” in Palestine. This declaration further complicated the geopolitical landscape of the region, as it conflicted with the aspirations of the Arab population and their desire for independence.
The Egyptian Administration and the Wafd Party
Under British occupation, Egypt experienced significant political changes, with the emergence of nationalist movements and political parties advocating for independence. The Wafd Party, founded in 1919 by prominent Egyptian nationalist figures like Saad Zaghloul, Saade Zaghloul, and Mustafa al-Nahhas, played a pivotal role in the struggle for Egypt’s independence.
The Wafd Party led several protests and uprisings against the British presence, culminating in the 1919 Revolution. The British responded by imprisoning key party leaders, including Saad Zaghloul, who was exiled to Malta. Despite these repressive measures, the Wafd Party continued to gain popularity and influence, demanding Egypt’s complete independence from British control.
The 1922 Milner-Eton Agreement and the Independence Struggle
In response to the growing nationalist sentiments and international pressure, the United Kingdom passed the 1922 Anglo-Egyptian Treaty, also known as the Milner-Eton Agreement. This treaty granted Egypt formal independence, with King Fuad I becoming the country’s sovereign ruler. However, it maintained British control over the Suez Canal and reserved certain strategic interests in Egypt.
The Wafd Party, despite achieving partial success with the 1922 treaty, continued to push for complete independence from British influence. They won the 1923 Egyptian parliamentary elections and formed the government, led by Saad Zaghloul upon his return from exile. The British, however, continued to interfere in Egyptian affairs, leading to tensions and further political instability.
The 1936 Anglo-Egyptian Treaty and the Road to Independence
Under mounting pressure from nationalist movements and the changing global political landscape, the United Kingdom and Egypt signed the 1936 Anglo-Egyptian Treaty. This treaty marked a significant step towards Egypt’s full independence, as it ended British control over the Suez Canal and reduced their military presence in the country. Egypt was granted full sovereignty, and the British influence in the country’s affairs was considerably diminished.
Conclusion
The Egyptian map under British occupation in the early 20th century was characterized by significant political and territorial changes. The British presence in Egypt led to the formation of the Anglo-Egyptian Condominium in Sudan, increased influence in the Sinai Peninsula, and the involvement in the Palestinian question. The emergence of nationalist movements, particularly the Wafd Party, played a crucial role in pushing for Egypt’s independence.
Through a series of treaties and agreements, Egypt gradually achieved independence from British control. The 1936 Anglo-Egyptian Treaty marked the end of the British occupation, paving the way for Egypt to become a fully sovereign nation. This historical journey highlights the resilience and determination of the Egyptian people in their pursuit of independence and self-determination, while also shedding light on the complex geopolitical landscape of the region during this period.
