Early Life and Education

Hosni Mubarak was born on May 4, 1928, in Kafr El-Meselha, a village in the Menoufia Governorate of Egypt. He grew up in a middle-class family and pursued his early education in local schools. Mubarak developed an interest in discipline and leadership from an early age. He later attended the Egyptian Military Academy, where he trained in military science. After that, he joined the Egyptian Air Force Academy and graduated as a pilot in 1950. Mubarak steadily built his career in the armed forces, gaining respect for his skills and discipline.

Military Career and Rise to Prominence

Mubarak joined the Egyptian Air Force and quickly earned a reputation as a skilled leader. He took advanced training in the Soviet Union and mastered modern air combat strategies. In 1967, during the Six-Day War, he served as the commander of an airbase. His leadership skills gained further recognition during the Yom Kippur War of 1973 when Egyptian forces carried out a successful surprise attack against Israel. President Anwar Sadat noticed Mubarak’s loyalty and competence, promoting him to the position of Air Force Commander. Later, Sadat appointed him as Vice President in 1975, which positioned Mubarak as a key figure in Egypt’s leadership.

Becoming President of Egypt

On October 6, 1981, assassins killed President Anwar Sadat during a military parade in Cairo. As Vice President, Mubarak assumed the presidency immediately. Egyptians expected him to maintain stability in a time of crisis. Mubarak promised to preserve Sadat’s policies while strengthening Egypt’s security. He formally became the fourth President of Egypt and began his rule, which lasted nearly three decades.

Domestic Policies and Governance

Mubarak focused on strengthening Egypt’s economy, improving infrastructure, and maintaining internal security. He introduced reforms to encourage foreign investment and developed modernization projects in Cairo and other cities. He also expanded education and health services. However, Egyptians criticized his government for widespread corruption, rising unemployment, and restrictions on political freedoms. Mubarak relied heavily on the emergency law, which limited citizens’ rights and suppressed opposition.

Foreign Policy and International Role

Mubarak continued Sadat’s peace treaty with Israel, making Egypt a key player in Middle Eastern diplomacy. He maintained strong relations with the United States and received billions of dollars in aid. Mubarak positioned Egypt as a mediator in Arab-Israeli conflicts, especially during peace negotiations between Palestinians and Israelis. At the same time, he worked to strengthen ties with Arab nations and defended Egypt’s regional influence.

Challenges and Opposition

Throughout his presidency, Mubarak faced several assassination attempts. He survived a major attack in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in 1995. Despite his firm grip on power, Egyptians grew increasingly frustrated with corruption, lack of freedoms, and economic inequality. Opposition movements and civil society groups called for democratic reforms. By the 2000s, demands for change grew stronger as Egyptians criticized Mubarak’s extended rule and speculation that his son Gamal Mubarak might succeed him.

Egyptian Revolution and Resignation

In January 2011, widespread protests erupted across Egypt as part of the Arab Spring movement. Demonstrators demanded Mubarak’s resignation, denouncing poverty, unemployment, and authoritarian rule. Despite attempts to appease the public with promises of reform, Mubarak refused to step down initially. The protests intensified, and millions of Egyptians gathered in Cairo’s Tahrir Square. On February 11, 2011, Mubarak resigned after nearly 30 years in power, handing authority to the military. His departure marked a turning point in modern Egyptian history.

Later Life and Death

After his resignation, Egyptian authorities placed Mubarak on trial for corruption and complicity in the killing of protesters. Courts later acquitted him of most charges, although his health declined during this period. Mubarak lived quietly in Cairo after his release. He passed away on February 25, 2020, at the age of 91, leaving behind a complex and controversial legacy.

Legacy of Hosni Mubarak

Hosni Mubarak ruled Egypt longer than any other modern leader except King Farouk. Supporters credit him for maintaining stability, strengthening the military, and positioning Egypt as a regional power. Critics, however, remember his presidency for corruption, limited freedoms, and authoritarian rule. His legacy remains deeply debated in Egypt and across the Arab world.