Abdel Nasser, Egyptian President

Who was elected president of Egypt in 1956?

Gamal Abdel Nasser

What organization did Nasser lead before becoming president?

The Free Officers Organisation

What significant political change did Nasser achieve in Egypt?

He toppled the British-backed monarchy and established a republic.

What was one of Nasser's broader goals as president?

To lead the Arab nationalist movement.

How did Nasser manage relations with Western and Soviet powers?

He played them off against each other to gain concessions for Egypt.

What major arms deal did Nasser sign in October 1955?

An arms deal with Czechoslovakia.

How did the Czech arms deal affect Israel?

It threatened Israel's military superiority.

What shift occurred in Soviet policy under Khrushchev regarding Nasser?

Khrushchev agreed to provide Nasser with more arms.

What was the Western response to Nasser's Czech arms deal?

Britain and the US withdrew an offer of financial aid for the Aswan High Dam.

What action did Nasser take in retaliation for the withdrawal of aid?

He took control of the Suez Canal zone.

Why was the Suez Canal control significant for Nasser?

It asserted Egyptian independence and was popular among Arabs.

What was the Straits of Tiran's significance in Nasser's conflict with Israel?

Egyptian forces blocked the Straits, Israel's only outlet to the Red Sea.

How did the Suez Crisis impact Nasser's popularity?

It elevated him to hero status in the Arab world.

What was Nasser's stance on freedom of passage through the Suez Canal?

He allowed passage except for Israeli ships.

What criticism did Nasser face regarding his alignment with the Soviet Union?

Critics argued he led the Arabs down a cul-de-sac.

What aid did the Soviets provide Egypt after the Suez Crisis?

Aid for the Aswan Dam project.

What type of economy did Nasser build in Egypt?

A monolithic state-run economy.

What challenges did Nasser's successors face?

They struggled to demolish the state-run economy he established.