French Campaign in Egypt

The French Campaign in Egypt (1798-1801) was Napoleon Bonaparte’s military expedition aimed at expanding French influence in the Middle East and disrupting British access to India. France invaded Egypt, winning battles and establishing a short-lived control, while scientists and scholars accompanied the troops, producing the famous Description de l'Égypte. However, the British Royal Navy defeated the French fleet at the Battle of Aboukir Bay, cutting off reinforcements and supplies. Eventually, facing local resistance and dwindling resources, France withdrew from Egypt in 1801. The campaign heightened European interest in Egypt and contributed to Napoleon’s rise in France.