KHEDIVE ISMAIEL

& KHEDIVE
TAWFIQ
RECENT HISTORY OF EGYPT
MONA EMAD
202000169
1) KHEDIVE ISMAIEL
Khedive Ismail Pasha, also known as Ismail the Magnificent, was a
prominent figure in Egyptian history during the 19th century. He ruled as
the Khedive of Egypt and Sudan from 1863 to 1879. Ismail is
remembered for his ambitious modernization efforts and his extravagant
lifestyle, which eventually led to the financial downfall of Egypt. Ismail
Pasha was born on December 31, 1830, in Cairo, Egypt. He was the
eldest son of Ibrahim Pasha, the ruler of Egypt, and grandson of
Muhammad Ali Pasha.

• Modernization Efforts: Ismail is known for his ambitious

modernization projects aimed at transforming Egypt into a modern
and prosperous country. He initiated large-scale infrastructure
projects, such as the construction of the Suez Canal and the
development of railways, telegraphs, and irrigation systems.
Researching these projects and their impact on Egypt's economy and
society would provide valuable insights into Ismail's modernization
efforts.
• Economic Policies: Ismail implemented various economic policies,
including land reforms and industrial development, to stimulate
Egypt's economy. However, his extravagant spending and heavy
borrowing to finance his projects ultimately led to a financial crisis.
Investigating Ismail's economic policies, their effectiveness, and their
consequences would shed light on the economic challenges faced by
Egypt during his reign.
• Foreign Relations: Ismail actively sought to strengthen Egypt's
international standing and reduce the influence of foreign powers. He
established diplomatic relations with major European powers and
engaged in international exhibitions to showcase Egypt's
achievements.
• Social Reforms: Ismail implemented several social reforms, such as
the abolition of slavery and the establishment of modern schools and
hospitals.
• Cultural Patronage: Ismail was a great patron of the arts and
culture. He supported the construction of grand palaces and public
buildings, as well as the development of literature, music, and theater.
Researching Ismail's cultural patronage and its influence on Egyptian
arts and culture during his reign would provide insights into the
cultural climate of the time.
• Downfall and Legacy: Ismail's excessive spending and debt
accumulation eventually led to his forced abdication in 1879.
Investigating the events that led to his downfall, including the
influence of European powers and domestic opposition, would offer a
comprehensive understanding of the political dynamics of the time.
• Modernization and Infrastructure Projects: Khedive Ismail aimed
to modernize Egypt and bring it on par with European powers. He
initiated ambitious infrastructure projects, including the construction
of the Suez Canal, which was completed in 1869 under the
supervision of French engineer Ferdinand de Lesseps. The canal
connected the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea, significantly
reducing travel distances and boosting international trade.
• Cultural and Educational Reforms: Ismail was a patron of the arts
and sciences. He supported the establishment of modern schools and
universities, including the prestigious Cairo University. Ismail also
encouraged the development of Egyptian literature, music, and
theater, attracting many prominent artists and intellectuals to Egypt.
• Political Challenges and Opposition: Ismail's reign faced numerous
challenges. As Egypt's debt continued to mount, European powers
exerted increasing influence over Egyptian affairs. This led to the
establishment of the Dual Control system in 1876, which effectively
placed European controllers in charge of Egypt's finances.
Additionally, Ismail faced opposition from nationalist and reformist
movements within Egypt, who criticized his extravagant spending
and perceived subservience to foreign powers.
2) KHEDIVE TAWFIQ
Khedive Tawfiq, also known as Tawfiq Pasha, was the Khedive of Egypt
and Sudan from 1879 to 1892. His reign followed the forced abdication
of his father, Khedive Ismail Pasha, and marked a period of political and
social change in Egypt.

• Political Challenges: Tawfiq's reign was marked by political

challenges and struggles for power. Researching the political
landscape of the time, including the influence of foreign powers,
nationalist movements, and the role of the ruling elite, would provide
insights into the complexities of Tawfiq's rule and the dynamics of
power in late 19th-century Egypt.
• Constitutional Reforms: Tawfiq faced pressure to introduce
constitutional reforms and establish a representative government.
Researching the efforts made toward constitutionalism during his
reign, including the drafting of the first constitution in 1882, the role
of political parties, and the challenges faced in implementing these
reforms, would shed light on the early stages of Egypt's constitutional
development.
• British Influence and the Urabi Revolt: Tawfiq's reign witnessed
increased British influence in Egypt. Researching the nature of
British involvement, the impact of the Anglo-Egyptian War of 1882,
and the subsequent Urabi Revolt led by Ahmed Urabi would provide
a deeper understanding of the power dynamics between Egypt and
Britain during this period.
• Modernization and Infrastructure: Despite political challenges,
Tawfiq continued some of the modernization efforts initiated by his
father. Investigating Tawfiq's contributions to infrastructure
development, including the expansion of railways, irrigation projects,
and public works, would offer insights into Egypt's ongoing path
toward modernization. Tawfiq inherited substantial debt from his
father's reign, and Egypt faced ongoing financial difficulties. Tawfiq
implemented various financial reforms, including attempts to reduce
government expenditure, improve tax collection, and negotiate with
foreign creditors. However, the economic situation remained
challenging throughout his reign.
Social Reforms and Education: Tawfiq implemented social reforms
aimed at improving education and public services. Researching his
efforts to expand access to education, establish modern schools, and
improve healthcare and social welfare systems would provide a
comprehensive understanding of his attempts to address societal needs
and challenges. Tawfiq prioritized educational reforms and worked to
expand access to education. He established new schools and supported
the modernization of the educational system. Tawfiq also focused on
improving public services, including healthcare and infrastructure
development, to address social needs and alleviate the living conditions
of the population
Legacy and Impact: Examining the long-term impact of Tawfiq's reign
on Egypt's political, social, and economic landscape would be an
interesting research topic. This could include an exploration of how his
policies and decisions shaped subsequent events, such as the British
occupation of Egypt, the rise of nationalist movements, and the broader
trajectory of Egyptian history in the early 20th century.