Final answer:
Gamal Abdel Nasser was the first President of Egypt from 1954 to 1956, after rising to prominence with the Free Officers Movement's 1952 coup that deposed King Farouk.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first President of Egypt, serving from 1954 to 1956, was Gamal Abdel Nasser. Nasser's rise to prominence began with his role in the Free Officers Movement, which orchestrated a coup against King Farouk in 1952. After the successful coup, a period of transition ensued, with General Muhammad Naguib initially serving as the head of state. However, Nasser truly came to power in 1954 after Naguib's removal. Nasser's presidency began officially when he assumed full executive powers. His tenure was marked by significant political and social reforms, as well as efforts to end British influence in Egypt, particularly with regard to the Suez Canal.
During his time in office, Nasser helped to establish a secular constitution and undertook land reforms that sought to address inequality. His vision for Egypt also included forging stronger pan-Arab ties, resulting in the short-lived United Arab Republic with Syria. Nasser's leadership extended beyond domestic affairs; he engaged actively in Cold War politics, securing aid from both the United States and the Soviet Union, with the latter assisting in the construction of the Aswan Dam.