Visualizing the Egyptian 1919 Revolution: Unveiling Some Hidden Aspects of the British Policy in Egypt through Photo Analysis

Abstract

The Egyptian 1919 Revolution marked a turning point in Egypt’s modern history. Despite the cardinal importance of this event, there is a considerable lack of scholarly works examining the visual heritage of the revolution. This research seeks to address this gap by analyzing largely ignored photographic sources to uncover the hidden aspects of the British policy during the revolution. Adopting a visual analytical approach, this research examines photographs taken during the revolution to explore the ways in which the British used visual media to control public opinion and suppress resistance. Through analyzing these photographs, while at the same time consulting contemporary archival sources and comparing them all together, the research reveals the often-overlooked role of visual media in shaping the historical narrative of the revolution. The findings of this study highlight the complex ways in which the British sought to manipulate information and conceal much of their policies and tactics during the Egyptian 1919 revolution.