Customer Reviews

The Making of the Modern Gulf States: Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, The United Arab Emirates and Oman

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Zahlan covers the history of the Gulf states with special emphasis on the history of the various monarchical families. Sadly, her attitude is unflinchingly fawning; she seems afraid to say one negative thing about these countries and their economic and political challenges. As well, the writing style is very dry and wooden. Her bias is symbolized by one of the maps showing the UAE as extending westward all the way to Dawhat as Salwa, at the southwest base of Qatar. This reflects absurdly ambitious territorial claims of the UAE at a time when the Saudis have claimed the coast in the vicinity of Khawr Duwayhin, southeast of Qatar. This map is emblematic of the book's flaws. A much better book despite its age (1980) is 'Arabia, the Gulf, & the West' by J.B. Kelly.

This is the best introduction available on the Gulf states, examining such critical themes as the British imperial legacy and the relationship between state, economy, and social classes. It certainly offers a non-Orientalist treatment and avoids the condescending and often bigoted discourse adopted by such colonial-minded writers as J.B. Kelly. The late Said-Zahlan had a full mastery of the British archives and extensive knowledge of the region. This is reflected in this valuable and concise introductory work.