The Egyptian Revolution of 1952,^[127] also known as the 23 July Revolution or the 1952 coup d'état, marked a significant transformation in Egypt's political, economic, and societal landscape. Initiated on 23 July 1952 by the Free Officers Movement, led by Mohamed Naguib and Gamal Abdel Nasser,^[128] the revolution resulted in the overthrow of King Farouk. This event catalyzed revolutionary politics in the Arab world, influenced decolonization, and promoted Third World solidarity during the Cold War.

The Free Officers aimed to abolish the constitutional monarchy and aristocracy in Egypt and Sudan, end British occupation, establish a republic, and secure Sudan's independence.^[129] The revolution espoused a nationalist and anti-imperialist agenda, focusing on Arab nationalism and non-alignment internationally.

Egypt faced challenges from Western powers, notably the UK (which had occupied Egypt since 1882) and France, both concerned about rising nationalism in their territories. The state of war with Israel also posed a challenge, with the Free Officers supporting the Palestinians.^[130] These issues culminated in the 1956 Suez Crisis, where Egypt was invaded by the UK, France, and Israel. Despite enormous military losses, the war was seen as a political victory for Egypt, especially as it left the Suez Canal in uncontested Egyptian control for the first time since 1875, erasing what was seen as a mark of national humiliation. This strengthened the appeal of the revolution in other Arab countries.

The revolution led to significant agrarian reform and industrialization, sparking infrastructure development and urbanization.^[131] By the 1960s, Arab socialism became dominant,^[132] transitioning Egypt to a centrally planned economy. However, fears of counter-revolution, religious extremism, communist infiltration, and conflict with Israel led to severe political restrictions and a ban on a multi-party system.^[133] These restrictions lasted until Anwar Sadat's presidency (beginning in 1970), who reversed many of the revolution's policies.

The revolution's early success inspired nationalist movements in other countries, like the anti-imperialist and anti-colonial rebellions in Algeria,^[127] and influenced the overthrow of pro-Western monarchies and governments in the MENA region. Egypt commemorates the revolution annually on 23 July.