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For troops in the desert, Cairo meant fleshpots or brass hats. For well-connected officers, it meant polo at the Gezira Club and drinks at Shepheard's. For the irregular warriors, Cairo was a city to throw legendary parties before the next mission behind enemy lines. For countless refugees, it was a stopping place in the long struggle home. The political scene was dominated by the British Ambassador Sir Miles Lampson. In February 1942 he surrounded the Abdin Palace with tanks and attempted to depose King Farouk. Five months later it looked as if the British would be thrown out of Egypt for good. Rommel's forces were only sixty miles from Alexandria - but the Germans were pushed back and Cairo life went on. Meanwhile, in the Egyptian Army, a handful of young officers were thinking dangerous thoughts.
Cairo in the War 1939-45 chronicles the multifaceted experiences of individuals and groups within Cairo during World War II. The city served as a vital hub, offering respite and luxury for Allied troops and officers, a staging ground for clandestine operations, and a temporary sanctuary for refugees. Amidst this diverse social landscape, significant political events unfolded, including the British Ambassador's forceful intervention in Egyptian politics and the looming threat of Rommel's advance, which narrowly failed to reach Alexandria.
This historical account offers a vivid portrayal of Cairo during a pivotal period, highlighting the city's complex role as a wartime center. The narrative likely explores the intersection of military strategy, political maneuvering, and the daily lives of its diverse inhabitants. By focusing on various perspectives, from soldiers to refugees to political figures, the book aims to provide a comprehensive picture of Cairo's wartime experience. The description suggests a work that balances grand historical events with intimate human stories.
Page Count:
400
Publication Date:
2013-01-01
Publisher:
John Murray
ISBN-10:
1848548842
ISBN-13:
9781848548848
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