|
|
--- Napoleon --- |
| |
Napoleon and Europe
The French, under Napoleon Bonaparte, came to Egypt in 1798. They had come
ashore, confronted the army of the Mamluks in the battle of the Pyramids,
and soundly defeated them. Napoleon sought the cooperation of the native
Egyptian leaders.
He tried to convince them that he was a friend to the muslims and that he
invaded Egypt to free the people from the oppression of the Mamluks, not
to destroy Islam.
As well as creating governmental changes, Napoleon and the French founded
the Institut Francais, a seat of learning to work for the advancement of
science, economics, arts, literature, and other disciplines. French
scientists and engineers also worked on improving roads, building
factories, and constructing arsenals. Napoleon also introduced the Arabic
printing press to Egypt.
The Ottoman government worked against Napoleon, and the British, under
Lord Nelson, destroyed the French ships, cutting off the French in Egypt.
Rebellion erupted, especially in Cairo, and was quickly put down. However,
with Ottoman attacks and British help, the French were forced to leave
Egypt and the Ottomans were in charge again.
|
| |
|
|
<<
Back to Islam in Egypt |
| |
|
