Isma'il Pasha was the Khedive of Egypt and Sudan from 1863 to 1879. He is known for his ambitious modernization efforts, which included the development of infrastructure, such as railways and telegraphs, and the promotion of education and industry. His reign marked a significant period of transformation in Egypt, as he sought to make it a more modern state. However, Isma'il Pasha's extensive spending on modernization led to financial difficulties. By the late 1870s, Egypt faced a severe debt crisis, prompting intervention from European powers. This ultimately resulted in his removal from power in 1879, marking a shift in Egypt's governance and increased foreign influence, particularly from Britain and France.