Which president of Egypt (1954-1970) led the Non-Aligned Movement and nationalized the Suez Canal?

• A. Anwar Sadat
• B. Hosni Mubarak
• C. Mohamed Morsi
• D. Gamal Abdel Nasser

Answer: (D)

Gamal Abdel Nasser is the figure tied to both actions in this question. He led Egypt in the 1950s through 1970 and is famous for nationalizing the Suez Canal in 1956, taking control of a strategic asset away from British and French influence. That move sparked the Suez Crisis but also asserted Egyptian sovereignty and helped fund development at home.

Nasser also emerges as a central figure in the Non-Aligned Movement, a collective of countries seeking independence from both the American and Soviet blocs during the Cold War. He pushed for anti-colonial solidarity and coordinated with other newly independent nations, helping to shape the movement’s direction and ideals.

The other leaders listed served Egypt in different eras and pursued different paths, but neither led the Non-Aligned Movement nor nationalized the canal.