The history of human civilization is a history of cyclical repetitions of revolution and empire. In recent news, one can consider the similarities between the French Revolution of the 18th Century with the recent uprising in Egypt. The thirty-year reign of Hosni Mubarak Dynasty is similar to the Feudal system practiced in the 18th century. The nobles and business people enjoyed special privileges similar to nobles and clergy before the French revolution, such as being exempt from taxes. In France, the people rioted for bread; in Egypt, the people experienced escalating prices and rising unemployment. When Hosni Mubarak promoted the National Party, several opposing parties were neglected and squeezed from the government and security forces. The constitution was made to satisfy the Egyptian Regime. Similarly, during the French Revolution, the King was coerced into signing the constitution and the “declaration of the rights of man and citizen”. However, the people remained dissatisfied all the same.

The Fall of Bastille started the French Revolution and spread out to other parts of France. In Egypt, the uprising sprouted from the Freedom Square, and became pervasive throughout Egypt. Now, in Egypt, military rule has temporarily taken over the government. Will a new “Napoleon” take over? Will a modern “Directory” institute a Reign of Terror? Deconstruction in revolution is relatively easy. It is reconstructing a new form of government that posses significant practical issues. Not all countries are conducive to a republic, which can easily become corrupt.

The uprising in Egypt is uncanny in its similarities to the French revolution. However, history can never truly be repeated. Egypt, in the modern world, has access to technological advances such as the internet and complex weaponry. In addition, it has over two hundred years of human capital to draw upon. Even if human nature has not changed, the world is a far different place and will mold this uprising in its own unique way.