In this comprehensive historical study, Roger Joint-Dagent embarks on an in-depth exploration of the Red Sea's modern history. The narrative begins with the era of Ferdinand de Lesseps and the construction of the Suez Canal, a project that profoundly reshaped the region's geopolitical landscape. The book meticulously chronicles the political, economic, and strategic transformations of the Red Sea from the 19th century to the present day. This volume, the first in a two-part series, details the key events, international rivalries, and local dynamics that have defined this vital maritime corridor, making it an essential resource for historians.