Imperialism and Nationalism in the Middle East Late 1800’s to early 1900’s

The Ottoman Empire (1800)

Challenges to Ottoman Power During 1700’s/1800’s, European influence in the Middle East grew The Ottoman Empire gradually started to lose territory to European nations Began to be called the “sick man of Europe” since it was on the decline.

Ottoman Empire (1878-1914)

“The Young Turks” Wanted to strengthen the Ottoman Empire and end Western influence Overthrew the sultan in 1908; put new sultan in power to carry out their policies Persecuted non-Muslim communities Stressed differences between Turks and Arabs Sided with Germany in World War I Lost many of its provinces as a result

Rise of Modern Egypt (Early 1800’s) Egypt becomes focus of rivalry between France and Britain Both nations wanted to build and control the Suez Canal

Suez Canal More than 100 miles long Connects Mediterranean and Red Seas Reduced trip from London, England to Bombay, India by 5,150 miles At first, only a few ships would travel through the canal per day. The travel time through the canal averaged 40 hours. Today, oil tankers and cargo ships make up most of the canals traffic with a travel time of about 14 hours.

Muhammed Ali Considered the “father of modern Egypt” Governor of Egypt in early 1800’s Attempted to modernize Egypt with reforms Those who came after him created a large debt Egypt eventually sold rights to Suez canal to French and control of canal to British

Egyptian Independence Finally declared independence in 1922 Did not regain control of the Suez Canal until 1956

Struggle for Iran (1800’s) European powers also acquired spheres of influence in Iran Shahs (Iranian leader) were weak; unable to resist European expansion

Reza Khan Iranian Army officer who seized power in 1925 Reforms: Set up the Pahlavi dynasty Reforms: Tried to end foreign control Attempted to modernize Iran

Conflict over Palestine During the 1920’s and 1930’s this area became the center of conflict between Arabs and Jews

Zionism Movement which seeks to re-establish a Jewish state in Palestine began in the late 1800’s Led by Theodor Herzl Driven by growth of anti-Semitism (hatred or fear of Jews) in Europe and elsewhere Jews from Europe begin to emigrate to Palestine

The Balfour Declaration Jews from Europe begin to emigrate to Palestine Britain issues this statement that supports both sides Favors the establishment in Palestine of a Jewish homeland Nothing should “prejudice the civil and religious rights of non-Jewish communities in Palestine”

The Seeds of Conflict During the 1930’s, increased numbers of Jews move to Palestine Zionists help them to settle by purchasing land from city landowners Arab tenant farmers find themselves forced to leave; have trouble finding new work in the cities **Conflict develops between Arabs and Jews in Palestine…

Review Which empire was called the “sick man of Europe” because of its diminishing status? Which person was called the “father of modern Egypt”? Which person seized power in Iran in 1925 and attempted to modernize the country? Which conflict developed in Palestine? What is Zionism?