Please Define the Following Key Terms

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The Answer is Khedives were the governors or vassals of the Ottoman Empire who ruled over Egypt and Sudan. The title "Khedive" is derived from the Persian word "khidiv" which means 'lord' or 'ruler'.

Who?
The most notable Khedives were of the Muhammad Ali Dynasty, particularly Isma'il Pasha, who is often credited with modernizing Egypt.

What?
Khedives had the authority to govern, but their power was subject to the approval of the Ottoman Sultan. They were responsible for the administration, military, and economic development of Egypt and Sudan during their tenure.

Where?
The Khedives ruled in Egypt and Sudan. Their capital was Cairo, which was the cultural and political center of Egypt.

When?
The title of Khedive was officially recognized by the Ottoman Empire in 1867 and was used until 1914 when the British Protectorate was established over Egypt at the outset of World War I.

Why Important?
The period of the Khedives was significant for several reasons:

1. Modernization: Khedives like Isma'il Pasha undertook massive modernization projects, including the construction of the Suez Canal, which was completed in 1869. This canal had a profound impact on international trade and naval strategy, as it provided a much shorter sea route between Europe and Asia.

2. National Identity: The rule of the Khedives saw the rise of Egyptian nationalism and the desire for independence from foreign powers, which would eventually lead to the end of the Ottoman influence and the British Protectorate.

3. Cultural Renaissance: The era of the Khedives is also known for a cultural renaissance, with the establishment of institutions such as the Cairo Opera House and the encouragement of intellectual and artistic pursuits.

4. Economic Changes: The Khedives implemented economic policies that transformed the agricultural landscape of Egypt, promoting the cultivation of cash crops like cotton, which became a major export and a cornerstone of the Egyptian economy.

In summary, the Khedives played a crucial role in the history of Egypt and Sudan, overseeing a period of significant change that laid the groundwork for the modernization of the country and the eventual struggle for independence from colonial powers. Their legacy is a complex one, marked by both progress and the challenges of adapting to the pressures of global politics and economics.

Please Define the Following Key Terms

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