On February 28, 1922, Britain unilaterally declares Egyptian independence, ending the 1914 protectorate. However Britain reserved control over four key areas: The Suez Canal, defense against foreign aggression, protection of foreign interests/minorities, and Sudan. Sultan Fuad I became King of Egypt. A constitution was later approved in 1923.
Britain continued to exert significant influence over Egyptian politics until the 1936 treaty, which further defined, but did not eliminate, British military presence allowing them to remain in the Suez Canal zone. On July 23, 1952 the Egyptian Revolution (Free Officers Movement) overthrew the monarchy, leading to full independence negotiations. In June 1956, British troops completely withdrew from Egypt ending the British occupation. Egypt's main national day, known as Revolution Day, is celebrated annually on July 23rd.
