In 1958, Egypt issued this commemorative stamp to honor the 50th death anniversary of Mustafa Kamil Pasha, a distinguished lawyer, journalist, and fervent nationalist. The stamp, valued at 10 milliemes, features a dignified portrait of Mustafa Kamil in traditional Egyptian attire, symbolizing his unwavering dedication to the nation and his role as a voice for independence.
About Mustafa Kamil Pasha
- Birth and Education: Mustafa Kamil was born on August 14, 1874, in Cairo. The son of an Egyptian army officer, he pursued his education at the French Law School in Cairo and later attended the University of Toulouse in France, where he cultivated his skills as a lawyer.
- Political Activism: Kamil became an outspoken critic of British occupation in Egypt and Sudan, aligning with Khedive Abbas Hilmi II, who shared his opposition to British rule. Initially, he sought support from France and the Ottoman Empire to bolster the nationalist cause, but over time, Kamil focused on rallying the Egyptian people to demand independence.
- Media and Education: In 1900, Kamil established the newspaper Al-Liwa’ as a platform to propagate his nationalist ideology. He also founded a boys’ school that welcomed students of various religious backgrounds, promoting unity among Egyptians.
- Dinshaway Incident and National Party: The Dinshaway Incident of 1906, where British officers unjustly executed four Egyptian villagers, fuelled Kamil’s campaign against the occupation. In December 1907, with the help of his ally Mohammad Farid, Kamil founded the National Party to further his cause. Tragically, he passed away only two months later, on February 10, 1908, at the age of 33.
Legacy
- Kamil’s famous quote, “If I weren’t an Egyptian, I would have wished to be an Egyptian,” continues to resonate as a symbol of patriotism in modern Egyptian history.
- His efforts inspired the Egyptian national anthem Bilady.
- Kamil’s mausoleum, built between 1949–1953 near Cairo’s Citadel, stands as a museum, preserving memorabilia and honouring his enduring legacy.
Philatelic Importance
This 1958 stamp serves as a tribute to a national hero who played a pivotal role in Egypt’s fight for independence. Its design reflects the admiration and respect Mustafa Kamil commanded as a unifying figure in Egyptian history, making it a valuable addition for collectors interested in Egypt’s nationalist movements and historical figures.