Capitulation of Alexandria facts for kids

The Capitulation of Alexandria was a big moment in history. It happened around 1800 AD in Egypt. This event was part of a struggle between France and England. Both countries wanted more power and influence in the Middle East.

What Was the Capitulation of Alexandria?

The Capitulation of Alexandria was an agreement. It marked the end of a long fight in Egypt. French forces surrendered to British and Ottoman armies. This surrender happened in the city of Alexandria, Egypt.

Napoleon's Big Plan for Egypt

In 1798, a famous French leader named Napoleon Bonaparte led an army to Egypt and Syria. His plan was to help French trade. He also wanted to make it harder for Britain to reach India. Napoleon also hoped to learn more about the region. This was a big part of his plan for the Mediterranean.

His journey included taking over Malta. In July 1798, Napoleon's army won the Battle of the Pyramids. They defeated British and Mameluke forces. After this victory, France took control of Egypt.

The British Fight Back

Britain quickly responded to Napoleon's actions. In the Battle of the Nile in 1798, the Royal Navy fought the French fleet. Admiral Horatio Nelson led the British ships. They defeated the French fleet off the coast of Egypt. Most of the French ships were destroyed. This battle greatly changed who had power in the Mediterranean.

On land, the French army in Egypt faced a strong force. This force was made up of British and Ottoman soldiers. The French were eventually defeated in battles. They had to retreat to Alexandria. Alexandria is the second largest city in Egypt.

The Surrender at Alexandria

The British-led army surrounded the French in Alexandria. On August 30, 1801, the French general Abdullah Jacques-François Menou offered to surrender. He suggested terms for the surrender. After some changes, both sides agreed to the terms. This event and the agreement are known as the Capitulation of Alexandria.

One important part of the agreement was about treasures. It stated that:

• The Arabian manuscripts
• The statues
• And other collections made for the French Republic

All these items would be considered public property. They would be given to the generals of the combined British and Ottoman army.

Because of this, Britain gained many ancient Egyptian items. The most famous was the Rosetta Stone. The French had collected these treasures. They were gathered by French scientists and scholars.