Khedive Ismail
Ismail was the grandson of Ali and took control of Egypt in 1863. His reign is particularly interesting due to his attempts to develop and advance the country, much like his grandfather did. Ismail reformed and developed the new judicial system and introduced new industrial and agricultural technology into the country. He also endeavored to improve the country’s education system to educate a generation of specialists and professionals capable of leading the country. He attempted but failed to curb the growing power of the British over the Suez Canal. He was also the first of his family dynasty to reestablish relations with the Ottoman Empire, which eventually culminated with the sultan granting him the position of “khedive.” He, like his grandfather, led expansive military efforts into the continent of Africa, where he faced less opposition. His new empire extended deep into the heart of the continent, but several costly defeats persuaded him to halt. However, by this time the country’s debts were so high that Britain and France eventually took control of Egypt’s financial holdings.