Description
Book SynopsisBased on years of firsthand research, Marc Valeri treats the political career of Sultan Qaboos as a case study of the social and political mechanisms that perpetuate authoritarianism in post-colonial states. He examines the way in which Sultan Qaboos built and constantly renewed his base in order to meet internal and external challenges to his power. Valeri also considers what happens when one part of this model, namely an oil-rent economy, falters, and the privileges enjoyed by half the population are no longer tenable. Expanding his focus beyond the state of Oman, Valeri then evaluates the strategies adopted and challenges faced by other Arab monarchies in Morocco, Jordan, and the Persian Gulf.
Trade Review'This is without question the best book available on the contemporary politics of Oman. It is based on extensive local research, ties in fully to the other relevant work on the subject, and tells a compelling story in a way that combines lucid thematic analysis with accessible language.' - Professor Gerd Nonneman, University of Exeter 'Marc Valeri has published a very useful addition to the scholarly literature on Oman since 1970.' - The Middle East Journal 'Valeri has produced a helpful study based on extensive local research and many interviews.' - Middle East Policy 'This is an important work and it provokes a multitude of questions and thoughts about the nature of the Qaboos regime in Oman, its impact on the develop- ment of the Omani state since 1970, and a glimpse of the legacy that the Qaboos will leave his country. It makes an excellent starting point for further inquiry.' - Asian Affairs
