Under Muhammad Ali Pasha, who ruled from 1805-1848, Egypt was industrializing. Industrialization at this time was key to the development of every European nation, Egypt was on par.
It was invaded by the British in 1882. A process of deindustrialisation was enforced with investment only placed in cotton production.
When I think of Egyptian cotton I don't think of luxury and comfort. I see a nation oppressed. I see forced backwardness.
