In the early 20th century, Harry St. John Philby, an explorer and writer, embarked on a remarkable journey through Saudi Arabia, capturing the essence of its landscapes, people, and the political currents of the time. His book, “Arabia,” offers an in-depth look into his experiences and observations, providing readers with a vivid picture of the Arabian Peninsula during a period of significant change and upheaval. Philby’s narrative spans across various facets of Saudi society, from the intricate political alliances with Britain to the social and religious dynamics within the Wahhabi realm.
Key Takeaways
- Ibn Sa’ud played a significant role in supporting British efforts during WWI, particularly through enforcing a blockade against Kuwait.
- Ibn Sa’ud’s cooperation with the British underscored his political and military acumen, contributing to the broader strategy of weakening Ottoman influence.
- The enforcement of the trade blockade against Kuwait served to solidify Ibn Sa’ud’s position as a valuable ally to the British during a time of intense global conflict.
- Philby recounts the difficulties faced by residents of Nejd whose goods were seized by the British while transiting through Kuwait, illustrating the direct impact of geopolitical strategies on individuals.
Saudi British Alliance
Harry St. John Philby’s explorations within Saudi Arabia brought him into close contact with its political and social intricacies, particularly through his interactions with King Abdulaziz Ibn Saud. Philby found Ibn Saud to be deeply convinced of the benefits a British alliance could offer, not just strategically but also in potentially easing the stringent Wahhabi stance towards Christians. This perspective of Ibn Saud, as Philby observed, hinted at a broader vision for Saudi Arabia, where the establishment of such alliances could lead to greater religious tolerance, a significant shift from traditional Wahhabi principles.
Sincere as he was in his own religion, Ibn Sa’ud was fully convinced of the practical advantages of a British alliance, and it seemed to me in these days that anything like a cordial reaction on our part would result surely and steadily in the establishment of the toleration of Christians as a basic factor of the Wahhabi creed.
St. John Philby: Arabia
Ibn Saud’s governance style, as recounted by Philby, was a delicate balance between unwavering severity and unexpected generosity. This approach, Philby suggests, was ideally suited to the Bedouin way of life in Saudi Arabia, reflecting a deep understanding of how to navigate the complexities of Bedouin loyalty and authority. Through Philby’s eyes, we see a leader who was deeply engaged in shaping a nation’s social and political landscape in the early 20th century.
Blockade On Kuwait
During World War I, Ibn Sa’ud played a critical role in aligning with British interests, particularly in enforcing a trade blockade against Kuwait. This strategic move was in response to the Sheikh of Kuwait’s support for the Ottoman Empire, which was in opposition to British military objectives in the region. Ibn Sa’ud’s involvement in the blockade served dual purposes: it underscored his political and military acumen in navigating the complex geopolitical landscape of the Arabian Peninsula, and it solidified his position as a valuable ally to the British. By taking action against Kuwait, Ibn Sa’ud not only demonstrated his capacity to exert influence over regional trade routes but also contributed to the broader British strategy of weakening Ottoman influence in the Middle East. This cooperation with British forces was a testament to Ibn Sa’ud’s strategic thinking, balancing his kingdom’s interests with those of a major global power during a time of intense conflict and change.
I assured him that his loyalty had never been in question so far as we were concerned, but begged him to realise that his enemies never tired of pointing to his lack of achievement and of urging his incapacity either to control the smugglers in his territory or to gain any striking military success. Before my departure for the South I had mentioned to him an incident arising out of the blockade trouble at Kuwait during April.
St. John Philby: Arabia
In an intriguing episode recounted by Harry St. John Philby, two residents of Nejd faced a dilemma when their goods were seized by the British while in transit through Kuwait. These individuals, who had ventured from the heartland of the Arabian Peninsula, found themselves entangled in the complexities of wartime trade restrictions. Philby’s narrative details their grievance, stemming from the interception of their merchandise, which they deemed crucial for their economic livelihood. This incident illuminates the broader tensions and disruptions caused by World War I in the region, showcasing how local traders navigated the challenging waters of international blockades and wartime diplomacy. The story, as told by Philby, not only reflects the personal impact of such geopolitical strategies on individuals but also highlights the intricate relationship between the local economic activities in Nejd and the overarching military and political objectives pursued by the British in the Gulf region.
I suggested that they had acted stupidly in having dealings with Shaikh Salim instead of going straight to the British blockade authorities, and now proposed that they should return to Kuwait under safe conduct from me to state their case. If their story was true their goods or the value thereof would be returned to them. And to this course they agreed, thus terminating an episode arising solely out of the machinations of Shaikh Salim, whose all-absorbing object was simply to bring discredit on Ibn Sa’ud.
St. John Philby: Arabia
Religious Observations and Interactions
Amidst the political and social tapestry of Saudi Arabia, Philby’s encounters with Ibn Sa’ud also delve into the profound religious undercurrents that define the kingdom. One poignant scene unfolds as Philby observes Ibn Sa’ud in a moment of devout reflection, reciting verses from the Quran. This act, performed in “a semi-musical chant” that occasionally shifts into ordinary tones, isa demonstration of the symbiosis between faith and governance in Wahhabi Saudi Arabia. The reverence with which Ibn Sa’ud treats the holy text, culminating in “a reverent kiss” before its careful storage, speaks to the centrality of Islam in the daily life and political ethos of the kingdom.
Furthermore, Philby’s narrative ventures into discussions of lineage and religious identity, arenas where Ibn Sa’ud exhibits a keen awareness of the historical and theological narratives that shape regional politics. In an enlightening exchange, Ibn Sa’ud articulates a distinction between his heritage from Isma’il and the ethnic origins of the Turks, whom he disparagingly associates with the devil and identifies as Tatars. This differentiation is not merely an observation of ethnic diversity but a strategic delineation of religious and political allegiances. By invoking these lineages, Ibn Sa’ud navigates the complex interplay of identity, faith, and power, reinforcing his position within the Islamic world while critiquing the Ottoman legacy in Arabia.
The chapter (Quranic) in question — whether he (Ibn Sa’ud) had selected it for Faisal’s edification or not it would be difficult to say — was on the subject of Christians, and Ibn Sa’ud, by way of commentary and turning to me, remarked that he, unlike Faisal, was of the stock of Isma’il ‘ cousins to you, for you are of the stock of Ishaq.’ The Turks, he said, were Aulad Iblis, being Tatars by origin.
St. John Philby: Arabia
Strategic Military and Diplomatic Manoeuvres
The strategic acumen of Ibn Sa’ud comes to the forefront in Philby’s recounting of the preparation for a significant military campaign against his rivals, the Ibn Rashids, underlining the critical role of the British alliance in ensuring both his rule and the stability of the region. This alliance was a pivotal part of Ibn Sa’ud’s vision for Saudi Arabia, where he saw the integration of Western support with local governance as a pathway to modernisation and security against external threats. The emphasis on this partnership reflects a pragmatic understanding of the global political shifts and the importance of positioning Saudi Arabia as a key player on the international stage.
Furthermore, Philby sheds light on Ibn Sa’ud’s adept navigation of the intricate web of internal and external pressures that defined the geopolitical landscape of the time. Amidst the backdrop of World War I and its aftermath, Ibn Sa’ud’s diplomatic engagement with British interests was a delicate balancing act. He aimed to maintain internal stability while leveraging external alliances to bolster his position both domestically and internationally. This period was marked by a complex interplay of loyalty, ambition, and pragmatism, with Ibn Sa’ud demonstrating a keen awareness of the broader geopolitical currents and their implications for his nascent state.
‘As for the English,’ the ecclesiastics admitted, ‘ you may rely on their word and they do not concern themselves with the beliefs of others.’ Thus in every way within his power Ibn Sa’ud, in preparation for his coming campaign, was laying the foundations of a general acceptance of his basic policy of an alliance with Britain.
St. John Philby: Arabia
The narrative, rich with strategic considerations and diplomatic manoeuvres, portrays Ibn Sa’ud as a leader whose military and diplomatic strategies were deeply intertwined with his vision for a unified Saudi Arabia. His efforts to secure the allegiance of tribes, negotiate with foreign powers, and plan military campaigns were all part of a larger strategy aimed at solidifying his control and laying the foundations for the modern Saudi state. Through Philby’s eyes, we see a leader who was not only a skilled warrior and tactician but also a visionary statesman, whose actions on the battlefield and in the diplomatic arena were guided by a comprehensive strategy for nation-building.
Health and Epidemic Response
Philby’s narrative offers a poignant glimpse into the health challenges faced by Saudi Arabia during Ibn Sa’ud’s reign, revealing a society at the crossroads of tradition and modernity. He describes a moment when Ibn Sa’ud was afflicted by illness, opting for traditional remedies in the absence of modern medical facilities. This incident underscores not only the reliance on age-old practices but also highlights a critical gap in healthcare that Ibn Sa’ud was keenly aware of. The mention of Ibn Sa’ud’s openness to bringing in a skilled doctor, regardless of their religious background, signals a progressive attitude towards healthcare and a recognition of the need for modernisation in this aspect of his domain.
The penance of Ramdhan had somewhat impaired the vigour of Ibn Sa’ud and Ahmad half-jokingly suggested that he should send down to Kuwait to bring up a supply of ‘ strengthening ’ medicines. I expressed surprise at there being neither a sufficient supply of drugs nor a really competent doctor at the capital and volunteered to procure the latter if desired. ‘ Certainly,’ said Ibn Sa’ud, ‘ I should like to have a good doctor — if possible a Muslim, though I would not object to an Englishman if a first-rate Muslim doctor were not procurable.
St. John Philby: Arabia
The text further delves into the devastating impact of the Spanish Flu on the region, a global pandemic that did not spare the remote corners of the Arabian Peninsula. Philby notes the epidemic’s arrival and its dire consequences, illustrating the vulnerability of Ibn Sa’ud’s subjects and the inadequacy of the existing healthcare infrastructure to combat such crises. The delayed response, compounded by the scarcity of medical supplies and professionals, laid bare the pressing need for a more robust health system.
the epidemic of Spanish ‘ Flu which invaded Central Arabia in the winter of that year found the royal family and the people in general defenceless. Dr. Harrison of the American Mission at Bahrain was hurriedly sent for, but arrived too late to save some of the chief victims of the fell disease.
St. John Philby: Arabia
Challenges and Conflicts
In the intricate tapestry of early 20th-century Saudi Arabia, Philby sheds light on the myriad challenges that Ibn Sa’ud faced in his quest to forge a unified nation. Among these were the pervasive issues of smuggling and the enforcement of blockades, which tested the nascent state’s resolve and capacity for governance. Philby recounts instances where Ibn Sa’ud had to confront these challenges head-on, illustrating not just the strategic dilemmas posed by smuggling activities but also the broader implications for regional stability and sovereignty.
There was, he said, no unit in existence, Christian or Muslim, which had better reasons to hate the Turks than he. It was not only on religious grounds that he hated them, but because they consistently returned evil for good. In 1904, when they sent regular troops to assist Ibn Rashid against him, he had defeated them at Bukairiya but allowed them to depart unscathed to Basra and Madina.
And again when he captured the Hasa in 1914 he had allowed the Turkish troops to depart with their arms. The capture of the Hasa had itself been forced upon him in self-defence for the Turks had used their position there to squeeze him with economic weapons and he feared their return to those parts both because he was anxious for the future of his religion and because they would inevitably set themselves again to undermine the lives and livelihood of himself and his people.
St. John Philby: Arabia
The narrative further delves into the complex tribal dynamics that Ibn Sa’ud navigated with a blend of diplomatic acuity and strategic foresight. Philby’s accounts of specific incidents, such as the affray between the Murra and Bani Hajir tribes, underscore the volatile nature of tribal allegiances and the potential for conflict inherent in the region’s social fabric. Ibn Sa’ud’s role as a mediator and peacemaker in these contexts is highlighted, showcasing his efforts to maintain order and loyalty among a diverse array of tribal groups.
In Harry St. John Philby’s profound exploration of Saudi Arabia, his vivid recounting paints a multifaceted portrait of a nation and its ruler, Ibn Sa’ud, at a pivotal juncture in history. Through Philby’s eyes, we witness the strategic acumen of Ibn Sa’ud, who navigated the complexities of tribal politics, religious dynamics, and international relations with a visionary leadership that sought to modernize yet preserve the essence of Saudi tradition.
FAQ
Q: Who was Ibn Sa’ud?
A: Ibn Sa’ud was the founding father of modern-day Saudi Arabia, known for his strategic role in the early 20th century.
Q: What role did Ibn Sa’ud play during WWI?
A: He supported British efforts by enforcing a blockade against Kuwait due to its Ottoman allegiance.
Q: Why was the blockade against Kuwait significant?
A: It was part of the British strategy to weaken Ottoman influence and showcased Ibn Sa’ud’s alliance with the British.
Q: How did Philby view Ibn Sa’ud’s actions?
A: Philby saw Ibn Sa’ud’s actions as indicative of his strategic thinking and political acumen.
Q: What was the impact of the blockade on individuals?
A: It led to the seizure of goods belonging to residents of Nejd, demonstrating the broader consequences of geopolitical maneuvers.