Gamal Abdel Nasser

Gamal Abdel Nasser, the iconic second President of Egypt. He led from the mid-1950s until his death in 1970.

#GamalAbdelNasser

#Egypt

Who Was President Nasser?

Gamal Abdel Nasser (15 January 1918 – 28 September 1970) was a revolutionary military officer who served as the second President of Egypt, officially from 1956 until his death in 1970  .

Rise to Power

Nasser was a central figure behind the 1952 Egyptian Revolution, which overthrew King Farouk and established a republican regime .

He initially governed behind the scenes before becoming Prime Minister and then formally elected President in June 1956  .

Major Achievements & Policies

Nationalization of the Suez Canal (1956): This bold move provoked the Suez Crisis but significantly boosted his standing as an anti-colonial leader  .

Pan-Arabism and the United Arab Republic: Nasser championed Arab unity, briefly uniting Egypt and Syria under his leadership from 1958 to 1961 .

Socialist Reforms & Modernization: He implemented sweeping land reforms, expanded industrial projects like the Aswan High Dam and Helwan steelworks, and raised access to education, housing, and healthcare .

Legacy and Downfall

Six-Day War (1967): Egypt’s defeat by Israel was a major blow. Although Nasser briefly resigned in its wake, he returned to office amid public support  .

Death and Funeral (1970): Nasser died of a heart attack on 28 September 1970.

His funeral in Cairo drew millions and ignited widespread mourning across the Arab world .

Historical Impact

Nasser remains one of the most influential Arab leaders of the 20th century.

His vision of Arab nationalism, social justice, and resistance to foreign domination greatly shaped regional politics  .

Quick Facts in Table Form

Attribute Details

Full Name

Gamal Abdel Nasser (جمال عبد الناصر)

Born / Died 15 Jan 1918 – 28 Sep 1970

Presidency Officially President of Egypt:

1956–1970

Revolution Led 1952

overthrow of monarchy, became PM and President

Key Achievements

Suez nationalization, land reform, Aswan Dam, UAR

Major Setback Defeat in the Six-Day War (1967)

Legacy Symbol of Arab socialism, anti-imperialism, modernization

#TheSixDayWar