The Effects of Al- Khalifa Government
on the Economic Conditions of Bahrain Shiites

Dariush Nazari^[1]

Abstract

In the 17^th century A.D, branches of “Otub” tribe that dwelt in Najd of Arabia started to migrate to different areas including Iraq, Damascus, and Persian Gulf, because of frequent droughts and their nomadic nature. Those tribes that moved toward Persian Gulf and settled in Kuwait were Al- Khalifas, Al-Sabahs and Al- Jalahimahs. Later on, Al- Khalifas moved to Qatar and settled in a western area of this country called Zubarah. In 1783 A.D, they invaded to Bahrain, ended the ruling of Al- Mazkoor – that ruled in favor of Iranian Government – and took the control of the country by taking advantage of appropriate time and specific polices. Taking the power in Bahrain, Al- Khalifas confiscated Shiites properties and set them to hard labors. Given that, Shiites were prohibited from being employed in any governmental departments and were forced to pay oppressive taxes, as well. As a result, Shiites found a place in the lowest level of political and economic status. However, the second-decade reformations of the 20^th century and attempts made by Hamad bin Isa bin Salman (1999 A.D) made some good changes in economic conditions of the Shiites; though the movement did not help them to get their rights back. Hence, dissatisfactions with the government continued. The present research considers the influential reasons for Al- Khalifas victory in capturing Bahrain and its influences on economic status of Shiites community in this country.