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Who hasn’t read about Mohamed Ali in history books (especially when it was mandatory for those in Egyptian schools)? Who didn’t admire this man and saw him as one of the most remembered Egyptian leaders, though he was not Egyptian himself? Without a doubt, Mohamed Ali has always been one of the most distinguished leaders ever to step foot on Egyptian soil. And, sadly, that’s not just because of his indisputable achievements; it’s also due to his extreme ruthlessness, which leaves many historians puzzled to this day and even inspired one or two works of fantasy fiction.
So, what were some of Ali’s accomplishments?
No one can deny what Mohamed Ali’s reign brought to Egypt. It was not just another state of Ottoman ruling, but under his leadership, 19th century Egypt flourished in areas including agriculture, education, diplomatic relations, and others.
He confiscated all Egyptian lands from the country’s elite and monopolisers, built several factories that were instrumental in strengthening the economy, developed the cultivation of cotton, and made it a pivotal anchor to Egypt’s revival. And while doing all that, he also pushed for educational reform, particularly the study of medicine, with the trade of goods and sciences between Egypt, India, and Europe more prevalent.
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How ruthless was he?
What many people don’t know about Mohamed Ali is that he had one fearless personality. And we’re not just saying that because he was ‘rumoured’ to have had his opposers (AKA the Mamluks) brutally executed at the Saladin Citadel in an infamous massacre after luring them in under the guise of celebrating a lavish coronation—which probably inspired the infamous Game of Thrones’ Red Wedding. He also violently quenched any revolts against his ruling.
Ali was even more ruthless in other historical events. Case in point, he successfully led a war to dethrone Saudi Arabia and then sent another army to ensure that the proposed treaty was being maintained. Although the war was long and arduous, the Saudi chief was captured alongside his treasurer and secretary in 1818, after which he was sent to Istanbul (though some sources say he was sent to Cairo instead). In spite of Mohamed Ali’s intervention, though, the party was executed in cold blood.
Via Wikipedia
What was the worst thing about Mohamed Ali?
In addition to his ruthlessness, Mohamed Ali was rumoured to be reckless regarding Egypt’s treasures and monuments. A weird combination, we know, especially since he went through a lot of trouble to secure the throne.
He traded some of Ancient Egypt’s priceless historical valuables to Europeans and diplomats in exchange for expensive watches and other western knickknacks that would break down shortly after he received them. He may have been a military genius with an eye for politics, but certainly didn’t always make the smartest choices!
