The British occupation of Cairo took place in the year 1882. This significant event marked the beginning of the history of modern Egypt. During this period Egypt or more specifically Cairo became a British colony. Till today, subtle European touches are visible in the different aspects of the life of Cairo people.
Lord Cromer established and consolidated absolute British rule in Cairo. He ruled Egypt for long 24 years and enjoyed the status of British agent in Egypt. He was able to keep the French, Belgians and Italians away from Nile. Cairo was a socially and politically happening city under his rule. Sir Eldon Gorst took over from Lord Cromer in 1907. He initiated many developments like construction of four tram ways in Cairo and train services connecting various cities in Egypt. English departmental stores and shopping districts were also set up. After him, Lord Kitchener became the resident minister of Egypt and set up a legislative assembly in Cairo. This was one of the
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significant political events as it marked the beginning of a Parliamentary life in Egypt.
World War I brought Australian, British, New Zealand and other colonial troops to Cairo. The capital city turned into a happening place, it became the epicenter of major political and social events in Egypt. There was a steep rise in price and the British soldiers begun enjoying things, which they had never before enjoyed. The city prospered in leaps and bounds, but all at the cost of the countryside. The poor people suffered from poverty and malnutrition. In 1916, the British introduced martial law, where ordinary civilians were judged by military courts. The British soldiers began exploiting Cairo citizens. Unrest among people took the shape of a Revolution. The Cairo revolution of 1952 marked the end of the British occupation in Cairo.
The long 70 years of British occupation of Cairo did not bring much physical changes, though even after that Cairo was under indirect British rule for a long time.
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