Egypt and the British Empire

What was Egypt during the British empire?

Although Egypt was never formally part of the British Empire, Britain did exercise control over Egypt. This was largely because of the Suez Canal.

When did Britain take control of Egypt?

The British occupied Egypt in 1882.

Who was involved in the occupation of Egypt?

There were three significant people involved in the British occupation of Egypt.

• ❖ British prime minister, Benjamin Disraeli.
• ❖ Egypt's ruler, the Khedive.
• ❖ British politician and banker Lionel de Rothschild.

Why did the British take control of Egypt?

There were three main reasons why the British were interested in Egypt.

• ❖ They had interests over the control of the Suez Canal.
• ❖ The Egyptian Government was facing economic difficulties.
• ❖ The Egyptian ruler, the Khedive, was asking for help to crush rebellions.