The Life and Times of Shaikh Salman Bin Hamad Al-Khalifa

The emergence of the Gulf States as important players on the world stage has been one of the most significant historical economic events of the modern era, and among the Gulf States the development of the State of Bahrain in this century is truly remarkable. Bahrain has pioneered sustained social development over a period of more than half a century, in a period of change that transformed Bahraini society. The internal changes brought about by the emergence of the Gulf States are little known, but must reach a wider audience for the full story of the region - past, present and future - to be fully appreciated. This book presents the unique story of the evolution of modern Bahrain as seen through the life and times of H.H. Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, ruler of Bahrain from 1942 through the crucial phase of transition. The first part of the book paints a picture of Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa in his human rather than political dimensions, showing how he exemplified the life of a good Muslim in his daily dealings. The second part presents the context in which his life and career developed. The third part deals with the framework of the postwar development of Bahrain. The final chapters deal with the role of Bahrain in the wider world and portents for the future. This work, which celebrates the centenary of the birth of H.H. Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, is based upon unpublished and published primary sources, visual sources, and oral and personal reminiscences. It is a unique history of a remarkable place through a study of the equally remarkable man who ruled over it for many years.