Biographies of Port Said: Everydayness of State, Dwellers, a

Name: Biographies of Port Said: Everydayness of State, Dwellers, a
SKU: 9781649032300
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A study of how the city of Port Said was created, and its spaces mutually produced and transformed through the practices of both dwellers and the state

Founded in 1859, as part of the Suez Canal project and named after Khedive Said, the city of Port Said has always stood at the juncture of global, national, and local networks of forces, the city itself a reflection of many layers of Egypt’s modern history, from its colonial past through to the eras of national liberation and neoliberalism.

Drawing on Bruno Latour’s and Henri Lefebvre’s conceptual works, this study examines how the ‘social’ (encompassing all aspects of human life—the political, the economic, and the social) of the city of Port Said was created, and how its spaces were mutually produced and transformed through the practices of both dwellers and the state. Looking also at the temporality of these processes, Mostafa Mohie examines three key moments: al-tahgir (the forced migration that followed the outbreak of the 1967 war and remained until 1974, when Port Saidians were permitted to return to their homes following the 1973 October War); the declaration of the free trade zone in the mid-1970s; and the Port Said Stadium massacre in 2012.

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SKU: 9781649032300 Categories: Books, E Society & Culture Studies, English Books Author: Mostafa Mohie

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Biographies of Port Said: Everydayness of State, Dwellers, a

Biographies of Port Said: Everydayness of State, Dwellers, a Book Description

Biographies of Port Said: Everydayness of State, Dwellers, a invites you to walk the lively streets of the city that grew beside the Suez Canal. Founded in 1859 and named for Khedive Said, Port Said quickly turned into a hub for global trade, national policy, and daily life. The story shows how the ordinary actions of residents and state decisions together shaped streets, homes, and public squares. Rich historical detail blends with clear analysis, making complex ideas easy for any reader.

The author, Mostafa Mohie, draws on the ideas of Bruno Latour and Henri Lefebvre to explain how politics, economics, and daily habits co‑create urban space. Throughout the book, residents and officials constantly negotiate the city’s form. Therefore, readers see Port Said not just as a place but as a living process that shifts with each decision and habit.

Key Features of Biographies of Port Said: Everydayness of State, Dwellers, a

One key feature is the focus on three decisive periods. First, the forced migration called al‑tahgir after the 1967 war, which lasted until 1974. Second, the mid‑1970s declaration of a free‑trade zone, which reshaped the economy and created new commercial districts. Third, the tragic Port Said Stadium massacre in 2012, which showed how political tension can erupt in public spaces. Each episode includes vivid anecdotes and clear timelines that help readers follow the city’s evolution.

Additionally, the book enriches the narrative with maps, photographs, and excerpts from local archives. Meanwhile, the style remains readable and avoids dense academic jargon. Consequently, both scholars and casual readers can enjoy the material without feeling overwhelmed.

Why Read This Book?

Readers will discover how ordinary daily actions can influence urban policy. The narrative reveals that citizens, through routine, help shape the very fabric of their city. Moreover, the book highlights the resilience of Port Said’s communities amid war, economic change, and violence. Fans of urban studies, Middle‑Eastern history, or social theory will find fresh insights and engaging stories.

Furthermore, the text encourages reflection on current urban challenges worldwide. By comparing Port Said’s experience with other port cities, readers can learn valuable lessons about governance, community activism, and the power of place. The author’s clear voice makes theory accessible, allowing readers to apply these ideas to their own surroundings.

About This Book

For more details about Biographies of Port Said: Everydayness of State, Dwellers, a and its author, visit the Goodreads page. Explore additional English titles at our store through the English Books collection. This engaging work is available now at Kalimat Bookstore Online, ready to enrich your understanding of urban life.