To what extent were the political developments and economic policies of Nasser successful?

The question requires that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the suggestion that Nasser’s policies were successful. Candidates may offer equal coverage of political and economic developments or they may emphasize the importance of one over the other; however, both aspects will be a feature of the response. A comparative approach may or may not be used. Candidates may refer to Nasser’s aim to free Egypt from British control, which was accomplished in 1956. After this, Egypt became a leader in the Middle East and an influence in world affairs. Nasser was also successful in achieving his aim of establishing a single-party state (although this may not widely be recognized as a success). His economic policies led to improvements in education, healthcare, housing and women’s rights; however, many of these were limited by the increased level of military spending. While the policies may have been aimed produce a modern and progressive state, they did not lead to political development as no democratic institutions were introduced.