Guerrilla History The Egyptian Revolution & Nasser's Era w/ Ahmad Shokr (AR&D Ep. 7)
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Apr 18, 2025 Ahmad Shokr, a history professor at Swarthmore College and author of the upcoming book "Harvests of Liberation," dives into the Egyptian Revolution of 1952 and the subsequent rise of Nasser. He discusses the British colonial impact and how pre-revolutionary discontent among peasants set the stage for change. Shokr highlights the transformative 1940s, marked by industrial growth and political awakening, leading to Nasser's land reforms and struggles against external conflicts. Tune in for a fascinating look at the intricate dynamics of Nasserism and its implications for today's social justice movements.
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19th Century Modernization Impact
- Mehmet Ali modernized Egypt by centralizing state power and promoting cotton cultivation for export.
- This defensive modernization integrated Egypt into the world capitalist economy but increased vulnerability to economic shocks.
British Colonialism’s Early Roots
- British colonialism in Egypt began before 1882 through economic integration and influence.
- British policies deepened economic peripheralization and financial instability, sparking nationalist sentiment.
Limits of 1922 Independence
- Egypt gained partial independence in 1922 but key powers like defense and foreign affairs remained under British control.
- Political participation was limited and social inequalities persisted, fueling dissatisfaction with quasi-independence.
