Empire 43. The Birth of Saudi Arabia
Apr 11, 2023
Steve Coll, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and expert on Saudi Arabia, dives into the rich historical tapestry of the country’s formation. He discusses Ibn Saud’s strategic alliances and the interplay of British interests during World War I. Coll highlights the transformative impact of oil discovery on Saudi society and the role of figures like Harry Philby in shaping the oil industry. The complexities of Wahhabism, Riyadh's rapid development, and the intricate dynamics of leadership succession provide captivating insights into the nation’s emergence.
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Ibn Saud's Rise
- Abdul Aziz Ibn Saud, a towering figure, led the rebirth of modern Saudi Arabia.
- Known for charisma and battlefield prowess, he reclaimed his ancestral lands in Riyadh.
Ibn Saud's View of the Sharif
- Ibn Saud viewed Sharif of Mecca as illegitimate, a puppet of Britain.
- He believed the Sharifs illegitimately seized control of holy cities from the Sauds.
Wahhabism's Tenets
- Wahhabism, founded by Ibn Wahhab, called for austere living like the Prophet.
- It rejected modern technology and emphasized an interior faith, impacting architecture and rituals.
