ID :
10355
Thu, 06/19/2008 - 15:37
Auther :
Shortlink :
https://oananews.org//node/10355
The shortlink copeid
Zayed: From Challenges to Union
Abu Dhabi, June 19 (WAM) - The Centre for Documentation and Research (CDR), launched yesterday its latest publication titled: Zayed from Challenges to Union, on the occasion of its fortieth anniversary, under the directives of HH Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, minister for Presidential Affairs and president of the CDR.
The CDR expresses its sincerest gratitude to HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and HH General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, for their inspiration and support of the Centre's mission to document and preserve the history and heritage of the UAE for the benefit of posterity.
"We dedicate this book titled, "Zayed From Challenges to Union" to the 'Father of the Nation', late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, former Ruler of Abu Dhabi and the first President of the UAE, as a fitting tribute to his unique leadership and outstanding achievements", said Abdullah Al Rais, director of the CDR at the press conference.
Over the years a vast amount of historical and other studies focusing on the life and times of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan have accumulated within and outside the Arab World. The phenomenal contributions of a leader and nation-builder of the repute and stature of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, continue to offer ample scope to researchers, scholars and historians for documenting his many-sided activities.
As a sequel to the earlier publication by the CDR titled 'Qasr Al Hosn', the history of the Rulers of Abu Dhabi from 1793-1966 and Zayed: From Challenges to Union also authored by Dr Jayanti Maitra, continues the narrative and opens up a panoramic historical view of the life and achievements of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan as recorded in contemporary British documents.
This book has been written with the specific purpose of offering researchers and readers an in-depth insight into the scope and extent of British archival records wherein Sheikh Zayed occupies a place of prominence. This research study is unique in the sense that it is solely based on archival documents. Based on exhaustive investigation and in-depth analysis of volumes of primary records of contemporary British officials who served in the Gulf, this book goes beyond existing studies published so far by offering access to detailed and wide-ranging information hitherto unknown.
Secondary sources have been used on a selective basis and consist mainly of published memoirs of the ex-officials who had served in the Gulf and in Abu Dhabi in particular. These works add a personal touch and give a rare insight into certain aspects of events and personalities that are not to be found in their official records. Following the scientific research methodology, this historical narrative presents a critical and impartial analysis of facts and events gleaned from the original sources and cited in the appropriate context.
The story that unfurls in the course of this book depicts the stellar record of an iconic leader's achievements and bears eloquent testimony to one man's unique visionary thinking and legendary success. Zayed: From Challenges to Union chronicles Sheikh Zayed's achievements from 1946-1971. This quarter century, which forms the chronological parameters of the study, witnessed his rise to power and fame from a desert prince' in the interior oasis of Al Ain to the President of the United Arab Emirates - a modern nation-state carved out of the bedrock of Arab-Islamic traditions and values.
Commendably detailed in its content, this research study also offers an interesting and insightful analysis of contemporary personalities and several landmark events in the annals of the emirates which should prove to be of great interest and value to researchers and readers alike.
Zayed: From Challenges to Union comprises a Prologue, four main chapters and an Epilogue which outline in chronological sequence three distinctive and significant segments of Sheikh Zayed's political career - as the Abu Dhabi Ruler's Representative in Al Ain, as the Ruler of Abu Dhabi and as the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The book is illustrated throughout with many rare photographs and reproductions of invaluable British archival records are featured in the Appendix.
The Prologue, titled Zayed - Oasis in the Desert', traces Sheikh Zayed's childhood and early upbringing. Values imparted to young Zayed by his mother Sheikha Salamah bint Butti, and lessons learnt from his father about the intricacies and nuances of Bedouin diplomacy and desert democracy during his early years in Abu Dhabi, laid the foundation of the young prince's future career. Virtually self-taught, Zayed's formative years were spent in the natural environs of the desert surrounding the oasis of Al Ain which helped
cultivate his life-long passion for the desert flora and fauna and his
deep-rooted conviction for their protection. Growing up in the midst of Bedouin tribesmen, young Zayed avidly imbibed the essentials of their culture and heritage firmly rooted in the Islamic faith and principles of Arabism. As Shaikh Zayed blossomed into maturity, it became increasingly evident that he was carved out of the same mould of extraordinary leadership qualities and attributes of head and heart like his illustrious grandfather, Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifah Al Nahyan, the legendary figure in nineteenth century Gulf politics.
By dint of his exceptional qualities of wisdom, generosity and
statesmanship, Zayed soon gained recognition as the acknowledged leader of the interior tribes. Chapter One titled Al Ain - Stepping-Stone for the Future' traces in detail Sheikh Zayed's initiation into politics in 1946 as the Abu Dhabi Ruler's Representative in Al Ain. During his twenty-year tenure in the oasis, Sheikh Zayed mastered the art of tribal diplomacy and evolved his inimitable style of governance based on consultation and consensus that proved to be the stepping-stone for his future fame and success.
Triumphing over insuperable difficulties, he practically revolutionised the economy of the oasis and made phenomenal contributions for the welfare of his people which earned for him glowing tributes and admiration from all quarters. More importantly, members of the Al Nahyan Ruling Family and his own people, as well as contemporary British officials, discerned in Zayed a great leader in the making which paved the way for the next important phase of his political career.
By unanimous decision of the members of the Al Nahyan Ruling Family, Sheikh Zayed became the Ruler of the emirate of Abu Dhabi on 6th August, 1966.
Chapter Two titled 'Stagnation to Reformation' describes the beginning of a new era in the history of the emirate of Abu Dhabi and gives a vivid portrayal of the remarkable achievements of its new Ruler. It highlights the stupendous responsibilities undertaken by Sheikh Zayed and the dynamic force with which he galvanized and transformed 'a medieval backwater' into a modern emirate. The chapter also offers some valuable insight into Sheikh Zayed's ideals and philosophy of governance evolved out of his unique line of thinking and activism. Far ahead of his times and peers, Zayed showed his
political maturity by thinking of a Gulf Federation on matters of defence, foreign policy, currency and joint ventures (i.e. roads). In fact, some of the crucial issues that had entered the thought process of Zayed almost half a century back are being currently discussed by the Rulers, politicians and intellectuals of the region and are in the process of being implemented.
While discussing Sheikh Zayed's external relations, the chapter dwells at some length on how the new Ruler of Abu Dhabi laid the foundation of a pacifist and friendly alliance system based on principles of mutual tolerance, co-operation, conciliation and peaceful co-existence with the Arab World and the world at large. Throughout his years in power, a cardinal feature of Sheikh Zayed's foreign relations has been his unwavering interest in and commitment to pan-Arab affairs.
Behind the impressive facade of progress and development, there were stupendous challenges that confronted the new Ruler, the sheer magnitude of which would have overwhelmed even the most experienced politicians. The massive struggles and sacrifices that lay behind Sheikh Zayed's extraordinary contributions particularly during the three critical years - 1967 to 1969, constitute the main thrust of Chapter Three titled ?The Crucial Years - 1967 to 1969. The chapter highlights Sheikh Zayed's political genius by virtue of which he succeeded in steering his country against heavy odds and emerging supreme as the paramount political figure in Gulf politics. The British officials of the day who had the opportunity of closely observing Sheikh Zayed's problems and performance were full of praise for the new Ruler's fortitude and able handling of the affairs of his
state.
With Sheikh Zayed at the helm, the decade of 70s was destined to usher in momentous changes that completely altered the face of the emirates. Chapter Four titled 'Crisis to Crescendo' depicts in detail Sheikh Zayed's role as the precursor of political unification in the region set against the backdrop of Britain's decision to withdraw after a century and half presence in the Gulf. The consummate skill with which he handled the problems of the burgeoning federation in the initial stages, and the pioneering efforts undertaken by him in unison with the Rulers of the other emirates, ultimately led to the establishment of the Federation of the U.A.E. on 2nd December 1971. The choice of Sheikh Zayed as the first President of the U.A.E. marked the crowning achievement of his career and the defining moment
in the history of the emirates. In order to give a fuller view of the
historical forces that shaped the federation, this chapter offers an insight into the policies of British officialdom, the views and opinions of the people of the region and the reactions of the Arab Governments towards this most successful example of integration in modern Arab history.
Zayed's emerging relations with the British Government and British official opinion about the new Ruler's performance have been delineated in detail, which along with an objective analysis of British policy-making and their decisions vis a-vis the emirates, provide a continuous and interesting link between the different sections of the book. Particularly significant in this context, is the examination of Britain's special status in the emirates from
a different perspective.
The Epilogue titled 'Dawn of a New Era', discusses Britain's abiding interest in the emirates in the post-Federation era after the loss of her last foothold in the Gulf. It gives a detailed description of the new-found Federation's triumphant march into the future which put to rest all negative forebodings about the chances of its survival and success. Deriving his inspiration from the spirit of 'desert democracy', Zayed had always been an ardent champion of people's participation in the decision-making bodies of the country. A staunch supporter of progress on the one hand, and steadfast in his preservation of tradition and heritage on the other, Sheikh Zayed
created a modern state based on Islam and Arab heritage. The study comes to a close by encapsulating Sheikh Zayed's remarkable personality and his unparalleled contributions which remain indelibly etched on the pages of history for posterity.
The CDR expresses its sincerest gratitude to HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and HH General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, for their inspiration and support of the Centre's mission to document and preserve the history and heritage of the UAE for the benefit of posterity.
"We dedicate this book titled, "Zayed From Challenges to Union" to the 'Father of the Nation', late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, former Ruler of Abu Dhabi and the first President of the UAE, as a fitting tribute to his unique leadership and outstanding achievements", said Abdullah Al Rais, director of the CDR at the press conference.
Over the years a vast amount of historical and other studies focusing on the life and times of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan have accumulated within and outside the Arab World. The phenomenal contributions of a leader and nation-builder of the repute and stature of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, continue to offer ample scope to researchers, scholars and historians for documenting his many-sided activities.
As a sequel to the earlier publication by the CDR titled 'Qasr Al Hosn', the history of the Rulers of Abu Dhabi from 1793-1966 and Zayed: From Challenges to Union also authored by Dr Jayanti Maitra, continues the narrative and opens up a panoramic historical view of the life and achievements of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan as recorded in contemporary British documents.
This book has been written with the specific purpose of offering researchers and readers an in-depth insight into the scope and extent of British archival records wherein Sheikh Zayed occupies a place of prominence. This research study is unique in the sense that it is solely based on archival documents. Based on exhaustive investigation and in-depth analysis of volumes of primary records of contemporary British officials who served in the Gulf, this book goes beyond existing studies published so far by offering access to detailed and wide-ranging information hitherto unknown.
Secondary sources have been used on a selective basis and consist mainly of published memoirs of the ex-officials who had served in the Gulf and in Abu Dhabi in particular. These works add a personal touch and give a rare insight into certain aspects of events and personalities that are not to be found in their official records. Following the scientific research methodology, this historical narrative presents a critical and impartial analysis of facts and events gleaned from the original sources and cited in the appropriate context.
The story that unfurls in the course of this book depicts the stellar record of an iconic leader's achievements and bears eloquent testimony to one man's unique visionary thinking and legendary success. Zayed: From Challenges to Union chronicles Sheikh Zayed's achievements from 1946-1971. This quarter century, which forms the chronological parameters of the study, witnessed his rise to power and fame from a desert prince' in the interior oasis of Al Ain to the President of the United Arab Emirates - a modern nation-state carved out of the bedrock of Arab-Islamic traditions and values.
Commendably detailed in its content, this research study also offers an interesting and insightful analysis of contemporary personalities and several landmark events in the annals of the emirates which should prove to be of great interest and value to researchers and readers alike.
Zayed: From Challenges to Union comprises a Prologue, four main chapters and an Epilogue which outline in chronological sequence three distinctive and significant segments of Sheikh Zayed's political career - as the Abu Dhabi Ruler's Representative in Al Ain, as the Ruler of Abu Dhabi and as the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The book is illustrated throughout with many rare photographs and reproductions of invaluable British archival records are featured in the Appendix.
The Prologue, titled Zayed - Oasis in the Desert', traces Sheikh Zayed's childhood and early upbringing. Values imparted to young Zayed by his mother Sheikha Salamah bint Butti, and lessons learnt from his father about the intricacies and nuances of Bedouin diplomacy and desert democracy during his early years in Abu Dhabi, laid the foundation of the young prince's future career. Virtually self-taught, Zayed's formative years were spent in the natural environs of the desert surrounding the oasis of Al Ain which helped
cultivate his life-long passion for the desert flora and fauna and his
deep-rooted conviction for their protection. Growing up in the midst of Bedouin tribesmen, young Zayed avidly imbibed the essentials of their culture and heritage firmly rooted in the Islamic faith and principles of Arabism. As Shaikh Zayed blossomed into maturity, it became increasingly evident that he was carved out of the same mould of extraordinary leadership qualities and attributes of head and heart like his illustrious grandfather, Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifah Al Nahyan, the legendary figure in nineteenth century Gulf politics.
By dint of his exceptional qualities of wisdom, generosity and
statesmanship, Zayed soon gained recognition as the acknowledged leader of the interior tribes. Chapter One titled Al Ain - Stepping-Stone for the Future' traces in detail Sheikh Zayed's initiation into politics in 1946 as the Abu Dhabi Ruler's Representative in Al Ain. During his twenty-year tenure in the oasis, Sheikh Zayed mastered the art of tribal diplomacy and evolved his inimitable style of governance based on consultation and consensus that proved to be the stepping-stone for his future fame and success.
Triumphing over insuperable difficulties, he practically revolutionised the economy of the oasis and made phenomenal contributions for the welfare of his people which earned for him glowing tributes and admiration from all quarters. More importantly, members of the Al Nahyan Ruling Family and his own people, as well as contemporary British officials, discerned in Zayed a great leader in the making which paved the way for the next important phase of his political career.
By unanimous decision of the members of the Al Nahyan Ruling Family, Sheikh Zayed became the Ruler of the emirate of Abu Dhabi on 6th August, 1966.
Chapter Two titled 'Stagnation to Reformation' describes the beginning of a new era in the history of the emirate of Abu Dhabi and gives a vivid portrayal of the remarkable achievements of its new Ruler. It highlights the stupendous responsibilities undertaken by Sheikh Zayed and the dynamic force with which he galvanized and transformed 'a medieval backwater' into a modern emirate. The chapter also offers some valuable insight into Sheikh Zayed's ideals and philosophy of governance evolved out of his unique line of thinking and activism. Far ahead of his times and peers, Zayed showed his
political maturity by thinking of a Gulf Federation on matters of defence, foreign policy, currency and joint ventures (i.e. roads). In fact, some of the crucial issues that had entered the thought process of Zayed almost half a century back are being currently discussed by the Rulers, politicians and intellectuals of the region and are in the process of being implemented.
While discussing Sheikh Zayed's external relations, the chapter dwells at some length on how the new Ruler of Abu Dhabi laid the foundation of a pacifist and friendly alliance system based on principles of mutual tolerance, co-operation, conciliation and peaceful co-existence with the Arab World and the world at large. Throughout his years in power, a cardinal feature of Sheikh Zayed's foreign relations has been his unwavering interest in and commitment to pan-Arab affairs.
Behind the impressive facade of progress and development, there were stupendous challenges that confronted the new Ruler, the sheer magnitude of which would have overwhelmed even the most experienced politicians. The massive struggles and sacrifices that lay behind Sheikh Zayed's extraordinary contributions particularly during the three critical years - 1967 to 1969, constitute the main thrust of Chapter Three titled ?The Crucial Years - 1967 to 1969. The chapter highlights Sheikh Zayed's political genius by virtue of which he succeeded in steering his country against heavy odds and emerging supreme as the paramount political figure in Gulf politics. The British officials of the day who had the opportunity of closely observing Sheikh Zayed's problems and performance were full of praise for the new Ruler's fortitude and able handling of the affairs of his
state.
With Sheikh Zayed at the helm, the decade of 70s was destined to usher in momentous changes that completely altered the face of the emirates. Chapter Four titled 'Crisis to Crescendo' depicts in detail Sheikh Zayed's role as the precursor of political unification in the region set against the backdrop of Britain's decision to withdraw after a century and half presence in the Gulf. The consummate skill with which he handled the problems of the burgeoning federation in the initial stages, and the pioneering efforts undertaken by him in unison with the Rulers of the other emirates, ultimately led to the establishment of the Federation of the U.A.E. on 2nd December 1971. The choice of Sheikh Zayed as the first President of the U.A.E. marked the crowning achievement of his career and the defining moment
in the history of the emirates. In order to give a fuller view of the
historical forces that shaped the federation, this chapter offers an insight into the policies of British officialdom, the views and opinions of the people of the region and the reactions of the Arab Governments towards this most successful example of integration in modern Arab history.
Zayed's emerging relations with the British Government and British official opinion about the new Ruler's performance have been delineated in detail, which along with an objective analysis of British policy-making and their decisions vis a-vis the emirates, provide a continuous and interesting link between the different sections of the book. Particularly significant in this context, is the examination of Britain's special status in the emirates from
a different perspective.
The Epilogue titled 'Dawn of a New Era', discusses Britain's abiding interest in the emirates in the post-Federation era after the loss of her last foothold in the Gulf. It gives a detailed description of the new-found Federation's triumphant march into the future which put to rest all negative forebodings about the chances of its survival and success. Deriving his inspiration from the spirit of 'desert democracy', Zayed had always been an ardent champion of people's participation in the decision-making bodies of the country. A staunch supporter of progress on the one hand, and steadfast in his preservation of tradition and heritage on the other, Sheikh Zayed
created a modern state based on Islam and Arab heritage. The study comes to a close by encapsulating Sheikh Zayed's remarkable personality and his unparalleled contributions which remain indelibly etched on the pages of history for posterity.
