Sharjah Ruler Unveils Comprehensive Encyclopedia On The Portuguese In The Gulf Of Oman

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has unveiled a new historical encyclopedia titled "The Portuguese in the Gulf of Oman: Events in Annals from 1497 to 1757." This extensive work is divided into 15 parts and will be fully available within two months.

His Highness remarked, "The encyclopedia titled 'The Portuguese in the Gulf of Oman: Events in Annals from 1497 to 1757' represents a valuable effort aimed at sharing knowledge. This collection, which I estimate to be around 15 volumes, not only encompasses various documents but also includes extensive writings crafted by the Portuguese during that period. Anyone who takes the time to explore these volumes will gain insight into the events and battles that unfolded over the span of 260 years. These works are designed not only for researchers but also for general readers who will find them engaging. Additionally, the volumes feature correspondence from significant figures of that era, enriching the readers' understanding and knowledge."

The encyclopedia aims to provide a detailed account of Portuguese activities in the Gulf of Oman. His Highness highlighted that the Portuguese never settled permanently but instead sought islands due to their maritime skills. Their fleets often appeared in this region, forming agreements with Indian Sultans. A key clause prohibited collaboration or trade with Arabs in Oman.

His Highness stated, "We focus on the Gulf of Oman because the Portuguese have never settled in one permanent location. Instead, they seek out islands for settlement due to their own maritime capabilities. The Portuguese fleets were often seen in the Gulf of Oman, where they engaged in agreements with the Sultans of India. A notable clause in these agreements stipulated that they would not collaborate with the Arabs in Oman or initiate any trade with them."

The original documents were translated from old Portuguese into modern dialects and then into English and Arabic. This translation process aims to facilitate Arab researchers' access to information otherwise challenging due to language barriers. His Highness emphasised cross-verifying sources for accuracy.

His Highness explained that translating these documents saves time for Arab researchers as old Portuguese is difficult even for native speakers today. He assured that multiple sources were used for verification, ensuring reliable information.

Volume Details and Source Credibility

The encyclopedia consists of 15 volumes, each containing between 400 and 450 pages. The second volume focuses on events from 1507, a year filled with significant occurrences. His Highness noted that Dutch documents are highly credible due to their willingness to correct errors promptly.

His Highness continued, stating, "The encyclopedia comprises 15 volumes, with each volume containing between 400 and 450 pages. We will now focus on the second volume, which is dedicated solely to the year 1507, a year rich in significant events."

Exclusion of Certain Documents

Documents written in Persian and Arabic from the Portuguese era were collected but not included due to needing further investigation. His Highness stressed providing accurate information required substantial effort for verification.

His Highness stated, "I have gathered all the documents from the Portuguese era that are written in Persian and Arabic. These are ancient handwritten papers, but we chose not to include them in these volumes as they require further investigation."

This comprehensive work is expected to be a valuable resource for both researchers and general readers interested in historical events involving Portugal's presence in Oman over two centuries.

With inputs from WAM