British Influence in Bahrain: Treaties, Pearls, and Oil (1820-1971)

Before the pervasive influence of the British Empire, Bahrain was primarily known for its strategic position in the Persian Gulf, serving as a vibrant trade hub and the epicentre of the lucrative pearling industry. The period from 1820 to 1971 marked a transformative era in Bahrain’s history, defined by significant British involvement through treaties, the … Read more

The Portuguese Colonization Of Bahrain

The island nation of Bahrain, situated in the heart of the Persian Gulf, has been a crossroads of trade and cultural exchange for millennia. Its history is marked by periods of significant influence from various regional powers, but one of the more intriguing chapters is the brief era of European colonization under the Portuguese Empire. … Read more

An Englishman in Al-Uqayr 1918: St. John Philby’s Observations

In the early 20th century, Harry St. John Philby embarked on a series of explorations across the Arabian Peninsula, documenting his findings in the seminal work, “Heart Of Arabia.” Through his extensive travels in Arabia, Philby provided a detailed account of the customs, economic practices, and daily life in regions such as Hasa, Wadi Dawasir … Read more

Islamic Conquest of Bahrain

The Islamic conquest and its subsequent spread across the Persian Gulf, particularly in Bahrain, stands as a pivotal chapter in the annals of Islamic history. This essay delves into the pre-Islamic era, marked by tribalism and polytheism, and transitions into the rise of Islam under the Prophet Muhammad’s leadership. Bahrain, known for its strategic position … Read more

Bahrain To Uqair: Philby’s Journey

In the early 20th century, St. John Philby embarked on a remarkable journey into the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, a region steeped in mystery and tradition, yet on the cusp of transformative change. His detailed account, “Heart of Arabia,” provides an insightful narrative of this expedition, exploring the rich tapestry of Saudi Arabian geography, … Read more