Egyptian Reformists
Egypt had a highly corrupt government by 1879. It was inept, ineffective and favored Europeans over the natives. The country hosted lots of wealthy Europeans whom the government of the day accorded better protection backed by law. The native inhabitants had little influence especially over the French and British who held great sway.
A group of nationalists arose under the leadership of Colonel Ahmed ‘Urabi and usurped power from the government. They took control of Egypt with the aim of instigating democratic reforms. These reforms would lessen foreign influence in the country and weaken the elite.
France declined to get involved. Britain on the other hand went full force forward with an invasion in 1882. They used the death of 50 Europeans as justification for this invasion. Their actual purpose was however to safeguard their economic interests.
‘Urabi’s forces that fought the British were trained by Europeans. As such, they fought like a regular military. Still, the British modern arms proved too superior. ‘Urabi were defeated at the Battle of Tel-el-Kebir and Britain took control of Egypt.