Question

Why did the British occupy Egypt in 1882?
a. to secure the Congo River to aid Leopold of Belgium
b.to set up trading posts along the coast
c. to maintain access to the suez canal when the Egyptian government appeared unstable
d. to rebuild the suez canal to accommodate larger ships

Answer 1

The primary reason would be the Suez canal. The British had initially opposed its construction as it was being done by a French firm. Nonetheless when Egypt became a British 'protectorate' in 1882 the canal likely played a large role in their interest in the country (the canal was finished in 1869).

Answer 2

so they wanted to maintain their access to it?

Answer 3

yes

Answer 4

thank you!