Abstract
This project analyzes two Middle Eastern Nationalisms which are rooted in antiquity but with very different results, Pharaonism in Egypt and Zionism in Israel. Both nationalisms emerged following the end of their respective mandates to give authority to those who wanted to lead. Both used antiquity to legitimize said nationalisms. Pharaonists used the Tomb of Tutankhamun, uncovered in 1922, which demonstrated the greatness of Egypt before conquest, which they hail as the first great civilization. Zionists used the Old City of Jerusalem in Israel to gain support for Israel as an independent state and as the homeland of the Jews. Zionists aim to return the Old City to its former glory from when it was the capital of the Jewish Kingdom before their expulsion. Pharaonism was largely unsuccessful, as it appealed largely to elites not to the regular citizens of Egypt. Pan- Arabism and Islamism were much more successful, as they united people through their shared language/ religion, not an ancient past that most did not feel connected to. Zionism, which did not gain much support until the end of World War II, has been much more successful, as it appealed to everyone, especially after the horrors of the war became more widely known. Ironically, now roles are starting to reverse as Pharaonism makes its comeback in Egypt following the Arab Spring under President Sisi, and as Zionism weakens in Israel due to its military actions. Both Pharaonism and Zionism use antiquity for their nationalisms.
Language: English
Published on: Mar 20, 2025
Published by: University of North Georgia
In partnership with: Paradigm Publishing Services
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© 2025 Sara Courtney, published by University of North Georgia
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.