Compendium Of The Histories By Sheikh Dr Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi Supports Historical Research Efforts

His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, recently discussed his new publication, "The Compendium of the Histories of the Arabian Peninsula and Persia 1622 CE to 1810 CE," during an interview on Sharjah TV. This work continues from his earlier book, "The Portuguese in the Sea of Oman," and provides a detailed historical account in both Arabic and English.

The publication is a comprehensive collection of 33 volumes in each language, containing 1,473 historical documents. It is also available digitally. The work compiles records from various sources including English, Dutch, French, and Ottoman archives. It also references Portuguese documents previously covered in his earlier work.

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Sheikh Dr Sultan explained that after the Portuguese arrived in the region and controlled key maritime routes, they shifted focus to Oman’s coastal cities post-1622. The English first expelled them, followed by the Dutch who were invited by the English for assistance. Both nations secured trade exemptions from Shah Abbas to establish centres in Gombroon (now Bandar Abbas).

The choice of Gombroon over Hormuz was strategic due to Hormuz’s lack of resources. Europe’s demand for silk and spices drove these trade dynamics. Silk was essential for clothing production while spices masked meat odours before refrigeration existed. The region served as a crucial transit route rather than a producer.

The Ruler of Sharjah reviewed numerous historical documents now accessible at the Dr Sultan Al Qasimi Centre. These include Dutch, English, French, and Ottoman records. Notably, the Basra Office Diaries cover areas like Basra and Iraq while Gombroon Office Diaries focus on trade activities.

Sheikh Dr Sultan highlighted differences in documentation styles between nations. Dutch records were concise with corrections; English ones were lengthy with mixed content. Ottoman archives are challenging due to language barriers but provide insights into regions like Basra.

French Archives and Historical Insights

The French archives mainly originate from their Ministry of Foreign Affairs but are limited due to early conflicts with England. Sheikh Dr Sultan acquired Dutch archives through collaboration with researcher Dr B.J. Slot. This effort preserved valuable materials that might have been lost otherwise.

German documents arrived later during the Ottoman era when Germany had a consul documenting events. These records are housed in Germany’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and cover periods around 1910.

Researcher’s Guide and Academic Integrity

To aid researchers navigating this vast collection, Sheikh Dr Sultan included a Researcher’s Guide listing document numbers and topics within "The Compendium." He stressed that scholars should cite original sources rather than his compilation itself for academic integrity.

His Highness hopes future research based on these works will enrich historical understanding globally. He shared an example where cannons found near Masirah Island were linked to a naval battle detailed in his earlier publication.

Omani History and Cultural Heritage

Sheikh Dr Sultan also explored Oman’s rich history through his study titled "Sultan al-Tawarikh." This work examines Omani history from early settlements to the Al Busaid dynasty without excluding any tribes or rulers.

He emphasised that every ruler prioritised national unity—a unique phenomenon—and expressed hope that this study would instil pride among Omanis while serving as a valuable academic resource.

The Ruler concluded by expressing his wish for scientific enlightenment across Arab nations through universities’ efforts in preserving authentic Arab identity via research using these comprehensive studies and archives.

With inputs from WAM