Gamal Abdel Nasser changed modern Egyptian history forever when he led the fight for Egypt’s independence in 1952. This new biography traces Nasser’s humble village beginnings to his becoming president in 1954. Under his leadership, Nasser formed the short-lived United Arab Republic, spearheaded the building of the Aswan High Dam, and led Egypt to defeat in its wars against Israel. This fascinating portrait is essential to any study of Middle East history and politics.