King Khalid ibn Abd al-Aziz: Politician and Modernizer
Comprehensive Definition
King Khalid ibn Abd al-Aziz Al Saud (1913 – 1982) served as the King of Saudi Arabia from 1975 until his death in 1982. His reign is noted for both political controversies and efforts towards modernization within the kingdom. Significant events during his rule include the seize and the subsequent assault to liberate the Grand Mosque in Mecca in 1979, and the Shii uprising in the Eastern Province in the same year.
Etymology
The name “Khalid” is derived from the Arabic root “خ-ل-د” (kh-l-d) meaning “eternal” or “everlasting”. “Ibn Abd al-Aziz” signifies “son of Abd al-Aziz,” relating to his father’s name, the founder of modern Saudi Arabia. “Al-Saud” refers to the ruling royal family of Saudi Arabia.
Background
King Khalid was the fourth son of King Abdulaziz, the founder of Saudi Arabia. Known for his somewhat moderate domestic policies, he ascended the throne after the death of his half-brother King Faisal. His reign was distinguished by internal and external challenges amid an oil boom that enabled significant economic and infrastructural development.
Historical Facts and Dates
- 1975: Khalid ibn Abd al-Aziz ascended to the throne following the assassination of King Faisal.
- 20 November 1979: The seizure of the Grand Mosque in Mecca occurred. Militants took control of Islam’s holiest site demanding the overthrow of the Saudi royal family.
- 4 December 1979: Saudi forces, with French technical assistance, conducted a controversial military assault to liberate the mosque.
- 1979: Shii uprising in the Eastern Province was catalyzed by grievances from the Shiite minority community.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
While his modernization efforts modernized Saudi infrastructure and economy and garnered support among progressive circles, his policies also courted significant opposition from conservative factions within Saudi society.
Synonyms
- Modernizer
- Saudi Monarch
- Khalid the Controversialist
Antonyms
- Traditionalist
- Anti-modernist
Related Terms with Definitions
- Grand Mosque Seizure: The 1979 incident where extremists seized the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, demanding political reforms.
- Modernization: Efforts initiated by the Saudi authorities to transform the kingdom’s economic and social structure according to western economic models.
- Shii Uprising (1979): Protests initiated by the Shiite minority in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province expressing dissatisfaction with the Saudi leadership.
Exciting Facts
- Despite opulent ceremonies marking state occasions, King Khalid was personally known for his simple and pious lifestyle.
- His reign saw the establishment of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in 1981, aimed at fostering economic and political ties between Persian Gulf countries.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“King Khalid will be remembered for the juxtaposition of both rapid modernization and the attempt to uphold deep-rooted traditions in Saudi society.” — Khalid Abdullah.
References
- Al-Rasheed, Madawi. “A History of Saudi Arabia.” Cambridge University Press.
- Lippman, Thomas W. “Inside The Mirage: America’s Fragile Partnership with Saudi Arabia.” Basic Books.
Suggested Literature and Other Sources
- “The House of Saud: The Rise and Rule of the Most Powerful Dynasty in the Arab World” by David Holden and Richard Johns.
- “Desert Kingdom: How Oil and Water Forged Modern Saudi Arabia” by Toby Craig Jones.
Additional Translations
- Arabic: الملك خالد بن عبدالعزيز آل سعود
- Indonesian: Raja Khalid bin Abdul-Aziz
- Urdu: خالد بن عبدالعزیز السعود
- Persian: ملک خالد بن عبدالعزیز آل سعود
- Turkish: Kral Halid bin Abdülaziz El-Suud
Farewell: Understanding the complex layers of historical figures like King Khalid deepens our insight into the multi-faceted narrative of nations and their evolving identities. Each leader, with his apogees and nadirs, leaves imprints on the tapestry of history, often engendering debate and retrospection. Keep exploring these enigmatic chronicles—the pursuit of knowledge is an eternal journey.
Best regards, Hassan Al-Sayed Published: 2023-10-03
