Photo AI
Write a narrative account analysing the key events of the Suez crisis in 1956 - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 2
Write a narrative account analysing the key events of the Suez crisis in 1956. You may use the following in your answer: - Nasser - British and French troops You ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Write a narrative account analysing the key events of the Suez crisis in 1956 - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Nasser's Nationalization of the Suez Canal
Answer
In July 1956, Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser announced the nationalization of the Suez Canal, previously controlled by British and French interests. This action was taken to finance the construction of the Aswan High Dam and to assert Egypt's sovereignty over its resources.
Step 2
British and French Response
Answer
The British and French governments, alarmed by Nasser's actions, sought to regain control over the canal and diminish Nasser's power. They formed a secret alliance with Israel, planning a military intervention under the pretext of separating combatants and ensuring the canal's operation.
Step 3
Military Intervention
Answer
On October 29, 1956, Israel invaded the Sinai Peninsula, followed by British and French bombers targeting Egyptian positions. The military intervention initially succeeded in advancing, but it was met with widespread international condemnation, particularly from the USA and USSR, leading to a geopolitical crisis.
Step 4
International Response and Withdrawal
Answer
Facing pressure from both superpowers and the United Nations, Britain and France were forced to withdraw their troops by December 1956. This marked a significant shift in global power dynamics, showcasing the decline of British and French colonial influence and the rise of Nasser as a key leader in the Arab world.