British Occupation of Egypt (1882-1956)
Britain occupied Egypt after defeating Egyptian forces at Tel el-Kebir in 1882. The strategic value of the Suez Canal drove the invasion, though protecting Coptic Christians was cited. British officials controlled Egyptian finances and government while maintaining a military presence. They portrayed themselves as defenders of Western religious values against Islamic extremism. British influence continued until Egypt nationalized the Suez Canal in 1956.
