Fahad Ahmad Bishara

Fahad Ahmad Bishara, an expert in maritime and Indian Ocean history, sheds light on his new book, which chronicles a 1924 dhow voyage across the Arabian Sea. He discusses using microhistory to unveil connected stories of Gulf commerce and cultural exchange. Bishara shares his personal maritime heritage, highlighting how his grandfather's seafaring influenced his work. Insights include the role of colonial technologies in transforming trade and the fascinating dynamics of local navigation practices and port communities. Get ready for a deep dive into the vibrant maritime past!

Fahad Ahmad Bishara, an Associate Professor specializing in Indian Ocean and Gulf history, delves into his book about a 1924 trading voyage of the dhow Al-A‘waj. Bishara discusses how the voyage exemplified the interconnectedness of global trade, revealing insights on debt, piracy, and shifting legal frameworks. He reflects on the legacy of dhows in Gulf culture and emphasizes the significance of primary sources like logbooks in understanding maritime history. Listeners will gain a captivating view of this dynamic era and its influences today.

Fahad Ahmad Bishara, an Associate Professor of History specializing in Gulf and Indian Ocean studies, dives into his book, Monsoon Voyagers. He examines the 1924 journey of the Al-A‘waj, exploring the significance of trade routes, debt agreements, and piracy. Bishara discusses how maritime law shaped interactions and the role of communication in the Arab diaspora. He also reflects on the persistent legacy of dhow trading into the mid-20th century, revealing the ongoing impact of these historical maritime practices on contemporary Gulf and Indian societies.