The Role of Sheikh Mubarak Al-Sabah in the British-Kuwaiti protection 1899

This research sheds light on the vital role played by Sheikh Mubarak Al-Sabah in obtaining British protection in 1899 AD. Mubarak's request for protection for his emirate was an imperative matter of reality, especially as Mubarak closely follows the successive development of events and the expected clash between the major powers, between The Ottoman rush, the Russian and German move, and some other regional dangers from the local forces, as Ibn Rashid, the ruler of Hail, who became a threatening force in the south, Mubarak was drawing his foreign policy in light of all these challenges, and looking for what would secure him and his emirate a stable situation in light of the growing and escalation of threats. Mubarak’s quick move, following the Ottomans’ announcement that they had sent employees of the quarantine center, to request an interview with the British Political Resident in the Gulf, and his declaration of his desire to place Kuwait under British protection was the appropriate solution to circumvent any decision that would increase or consolidate the Ottoman influence towards his emirate. Perhaps Mubarak's success in leaking news that in the event he did not obtain a protection agreement with Britain, he would be forced to agree with the Ottoman Empire, and perhaps - also - France, would have a positive impact, if the British authorities rushed to take more decisive steps, responded to Mubarak's request and concluded the agreement On January 23, 1899 AD. Sheikh Mubarak's success in obtaining the agreement was essential in consolidating and stabilizing the political situation of Kuwait. He was able to work through the protection umbrella with more confidence, as well as support his abilities in facing other challenges with greater confidence.