Tel-el-Kebir is a significant historical site in Egypt, primarily known for the Battle of Tel-el-Kebir which took place on September 13, 1882. This battle was a key event during the Anglo-Egyptian War, where British forces, under the command of Sir Garnet Wolseley, decisively defeated the Egyptian army led by Ahmed Urabi.
The Anglo-Egyptian War was precipitated by internal political instability in Egypt. Ahmed Urabi, a nationalist leader, had risen through the ranks of the Egyptian army and led a revolt against the ruling Khedive Tewfik Pasha, who was seen as a puppet of European powers, particularly Britain and France. Urabi's actions led to concerns about the security of the Suez Canal, a vital trade route, prompting British intervention.
The British launched a surprise dawn attack on the entrenched Egyptian positions, which were thought to be impregnable due to their earthworks and trenches. The British forces managed to outflank the Egyptians, leading to a disorganized retreat by Urabi's troops. The battle resulted in heavy Egyptian casualties and a relatively low number of British losses.
Following the battle:
The Battle of Tel-el-Kebir is noted for: