Greek Exodus from Egypt: Diaspora Politics and Emigration, 1937-1962

This book explores the decline of the Greek population in Egypt from the nineteenth century to the middle of the twentieth century, due to abolition of foreigners privileges in 1937 and the nationalist revolution of 1952. It reconstructs the sociopolitical circumstances that led to this decline, providing a multifaceted account of demographic decline.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 01 November 2020
Publisher: Berghahn Books

From the nineteenth century to the middle of the twentieth century, Greeks played a significant role as one of the largest and most influential minority groups in Egyptian society. However, today, only a mere two thousand individuals remain in Egypt, marking a significant decline from the past. This meticulously researched book delves into the intricate process by which Egypt's once-thriving Greek population dwindled to almost nothing, beginning with the abolition of foreigners' privileges in 1937 and culminating in the nationalist revolution of 1952. It reconstructs the complex sociopolitical landscape that Greeks navigated during this period, offering a comprehensive account of the demographic decline that resulted from a combination of large structural factors and the choices made by countless individuals.

The nineteenth century saw the arrival of Greeks in Egypt, initially as traders and merchants. However, their presence grew over time, and by the mid-nineteenth century, they had established themselves as a significant minority group. The Greeks brought with them their culture, language, and religion, which had a profound impact on Egyptian society. They built churches, schools, and hospitals, and contributed to the development of the arts and literature in Egypt.

Despite their contributions, the Greeks faced discrimination and marginalization from the Egyptian majority. They were subjected to laws and policies that restricted their rights and freedoms, and they were often excluded from positions of power and influence. This discrimination continued into the twentieth century, even as the Greeks played an increasingly important role in Egyptian society.

In 1937, the Egyptian government abolished foreigners' privileges, which included the right to own property and practice their religion. This decision was a significant blow to the Greek community, as it effectively stripped them of their rights and reduced them to second-class citizens. The abolition of foreigners' privileges was part of a broader nationalist movement that aimed to assert Egyptian sovereignty and control over its resources.

The nationalist revolution of 1952 was a turning point in the history of the Greek community in Egypt. The revolution was led by Gamal Abdel Nasser, who aimed to modernize Egypt and establish a socialist state. The revolution was characterized by a wave of nationalism and anti-colonialism, and it led to the expulsion of many foreign nationals, including the Greeks.

The expulsion of the Greeks from Egypt was a devastating blow to the community. Many Greeks were forced to leave their homes and businesses, and they were often unable to return to their homeland. The expulsion was accompanied by violence and persecution, and many Greeks were killed or injured. The loss of their community and their rights was a significant blow to the Greeks, and it marked the end of an era in their history.

Despite the expulsion, the Greek community in Egypt has not been completely erased. There are still a few thousand Greeks living in Egypt today, and they continue to play an important role in Egyptian society. They have contributed to the development of the country, particularly in the fields of medicine, education, and the arts.

The decline of the Greek community in Egypt is a complex and multifaceted issue that reflects the broader political and social changes that have taken place in the country over the past century. The abolition of foreigners' privileges in 1937 and the nationalist revolution of 1952 were significant events that marked the end of an era in the history of the Greek community in Egypt. However, the community has not been completely erased, and it continues to play an important role in Egyptian society.

In conclusion, the decline of the Greek community in Egypt is a testament to the complex and multifaceted nature of the history of the country. The Greeks played a significant role in Egyptian society for centuries, but their presence dwindled to almost nothing in the twentieth century. This decline was a result of a combination of large structural factors, such as the abolition of foreigners' privileges, and the decisions of countless individuals. Despite the expulsion of the Greeks from Egypt, the community has not been completely erased, and it continues to play an important role in Egyptian society today. The history of the Greek community in Egypt is a reminder of the importance of diversity and the significance of protecting the rights and freedoms of minority groups.

Weight: 390g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789208351