The Age of Napoleon Podcast Episode 44: Ali Bonaparte
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Feb 16, 2019 The podcast explores Napoleon's challenges in Egypt, including the Battle of the Nile, France's foreign policy, and the Ottoman reaction. It delves into the chaos and resistance in Cairo, cultural differences in administration, and Napoleon's dilemma of converting to Islam for legitimacy. The episode also mentions Napoleon's failed overtures and transitions to an advertisement for 'Civil War and Reconstruction' podcast.
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Ottoman Reaction Was Misjudged
- France misread Ottoman tolerance and assumed acquiescence to conquest.
- The legal fiction of Ottoman sovereignty over Egypt made the invasion an act of war in Constantinople's eyes.
Caliph's Edict Turned Egypt Into A Sacred Cause
- Sultan Selim III invoked his role as caliph to call Muslims to oppose the French.
- The declaration removed any pretense of Ottoman acceptance and signaled full-scale resistance.
Cairo Largely Deserted On Entry
- Napoleon's proclamations failed to reassure most Caireens and many fled.
- The city was nearly deserted and only small crowds watched the French parade in.