Suez Canal Collection (page 2)
"The Suez Canal: A Gateway of Imperialism and Strategic Importance" The Devilfish in Egyptian Waters
All Professionally Made to Order for Quick Shipping
"The Suez Canal: A Gateway of Imperialism and Strategic Importance" The Devilfish in Egyptian Waters. An American cartoon from 1882 depicting John Bull (England) as the octopus of imperialism grabbing land on every continent, serves as a chilling reminder of the historical significance surrounding the Suez Canal. This man-made sea-level waterway located in Egypt connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea through the Isthmus of Suez. Dating back to its construction in 1869, this engineering marvel has played a pivotal role in shaping global trade routes and geopolitical dynamics. As depicted in a map from 1897, it served as a vital link between Africa and Europe, facilitating maritime commerce and opening up new avenues for colonial powers seeking dominance over territories. The strategic importance of the canal is highlighted by various maps showcasing military campaigns such as those during World War I. From February 1915 to May 1916, Egypt became a battleground where forces clashed for control over this crucial waterway. Maps from that era depict not only Egypt but also neighboring regions like Darfur and Abyssinia, emphasizing how conflicts often spilled beyond borders due to their proximity to this key artery. A black-and-white photograph captures an image of the canal itself during its early years under construction—a testament to human ingenuity overcoming geographical obstacles. The completion of this ambitious project revolutionized international shipping by providing a shortcut between continents while avoiding treacherous journeys around Africa's Cape Horn or through stormy seas near Gibraltar. Fast forward to more recent times; even aerial warfare recognized its significance with an illustration showing Air Force restrictions banning flights above not just land but also airspace spanning across the Red Sea towards Indian Ocean—an indication that controlling access points like these holds immense strategic value. Furthermore, another lithograph titled "The Partition of Africa" highlights how European powers carved up African territories during colonization—each vying for control over resources and trade routes including those facilitated by the Suez Canal.