ABSTRACT
In the wake of the Second World War, Egypt’s ancien régime embarked upon the last road towards its 1952 collapse. Coping with the inherent problems of the country was now much more difficult compared with the 1935-6 situation. Mounting social tension stemming mainly from growing unemployment, created further confusion and frustration among the young generation. In fighting foreign occupation a change of the guard in the sources of inspiration, both external and internal, had taken place. The Soviet Union replaced Italy and Germany, and Islamic fundamentalism took over from fascist-inspired anti-parliamentarianism. Leftist radicalism and Islamic orientation competed for the young nationalists, inspiring them to rebel not only against the British but also against the legitimacy of the existing regime.
