Egypt: Revolution, Failed Transition and Counter-Revolution

Azmi Bishara's book "The Egyptian Revolution: From July Coup to January Revolution" is a comprehensive study of the 2011 Egyptian Revolution, exploring the social, economic, and political factors that led to the uprisings and the subsequent transition and coup. It critically examines the relationship between the presidency and the army, highlighting the presidency's gradual strengthening at the expense of other institutions. The book also discusses the failure of the democratic transition and its impact on Arab revolutions. Using primary source material, it provides a sense of immediacy and urgency, preserving the memory of the revolution and serving as a valuable reference book.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 746 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Azmi Bishara's groundbreaking work on the 2011 Egyptian Revolution delves into intricate details of the events leading up to the momentous uprisings and the subsequent transition and coup. The book meticulously examines the social and economic conditions that shaped the backdrop of the revolution, as well as the complex challenges posed by the transition from authoritarianism to democracy.

Part One, titled "From July Coup to January Revolution," takes readers back to the 1952 revolution or the 1952 Coup d'état, tracing events until 2011 when Hosni Mubarak stepped down as the president of Egypt following weeks of protests. It highlights the evolving relationship between the presidency and the army, challenging the notion that the presidency weakened other institutions, particularly the army, and reached its peak under Mubarak.

Part Two, titled "From Revolution to Coup d'Etat," delves into the critical stages from when the military junta assumed control of Egypt as the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF), and the election of Mohamed Morsi, up until the coup to overthrow his presidency. Bishara employs a democratic transition theory perspective to explain the failure of the democratic transition and its profound impact on Arab revolutions since then. Written during the revolutions, the book conveys a sense of urgency and immediacy as Bishara offers comprehensive assessments and forecasts that later proved accurate.

One of the book's notable features is its extensive use of primary source material, including interviews, statistics, and public opinion polls. This approach ensures the preservation of the memory of the revolution and establishes it as one of the most comprehensive reference books on the subject to date.

Azmi Bishara's work on the Egyptian Revolution is a valuable contribution to understanding the complex dynamics of political change in the Middle East and North Africa. It sheds light on the factors that fueled the uprisings, the challenges faced during the transition, and the implications for the future of democracy in the region.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780755645947