Description: Khaled Fahmy offers a new interpretation of modern Egyptian history and the rise of Egyptian nationalism in a theoretically informed study. Basing his work on previously neglected archival material, the author demonstrates how Mehmed Ali built up the Egyptian army to further his own ambitions rather than as a means of gaining Egyptian independence. In this way, the book challenges traditionally held views about early nineteenth-century Egypt and the role of Mehmed Ali as the founder of modern Egypt. The book will be essential reading for students of the Middle East, Ottomanists, military historians and those interested in the construction of the modern nation state.
Review Quotes: 'Fahmy has carefully examined and synthesized an unusually wide range of archival and published sources, and his conclusions are cogently and clearly presented. This is also a very readable book.' Avigdor Levy, The International History Review