Question

Background information: This is an excerpt from a speech given by Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser in 1956 following his decision to nationalize the canal. Egypt stands firmly to preserve her sovereignty. Your country stands solidly and staunchly to preserve her dignity against imperialistic schemes of a number of nations who have uncovered their desires for domination and supremacy. . . . I am speaking in the name of every Egyptian Arab and in the name of all free countries and of all those who believe in liberty and are ready to defend it. According to Nasser, why did Egypt decide to seize the canal

Answer 1

This question is missing the answer choices. I was able to find them online. They are the following:

A. to become more imperialistic.

B. to protect its independence and liberty.

C. to win an alliance with the United States.

D. to win the support of Egyptian Arabs.

Answer:

According to Nasser, Egypt decided to seize the canal:

B. to protect its independence and liberty.

Explanation:

Gamal Abdel Nasser (1918 - 1970) served as president of Egypt from 1956 to 1970.

In 1956, while the Cold War was raging, President Nasser decided that Egypt would take control of the Suez Canal. The canal is an artificial seaway that allows ships to go from the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea. By taking control of the canal, Nasser was able to charge a toll from crossing ships in order to build the Aswan Dam. The funds for the dam had been a promise by the United States that was never fulfilled.

In the excerpt from Nasser's speech, he clearly justifies his decision to seize the canal by saying that it was done for Egypt's independence and liberty. He claims he wants to preserve the country's sovereignty and its "dignity against imperialistic schemes". In other words, Egypt will stand against other countries' attempts at domination. With that in mind, we can safely choose letter B as the best option.