The History of Kuwait

The tiny country of Kuwait grabbed the world’s attention during the Gulf War, during which its natural petroleum resource became the envy of its neighboring country of Iraq. But Kuwait’s history goes back long before any oil was discovered, back to Mesopotamian settlements as early as 3000 BCE. Ideal for high school students as well as general readers, History of Kuwait offers a comprehensive look at how such a small country could, essentially, rule the world with just one natural resource. From sheikhdom to British protectorate to independence to invasion, Kuwait’s history is long and rich with culture. Michael S. Casey demonstrates how this Middle Eastern gem has grown throughout the centuries.

The work includes a timeline of important events, starting with pre-history, biographies of important figures in Kuwait’s history, a glossary of terms, and a bibliographic essay.

The Land and People of Kuwait

Desert Origins and Settlement (ca. 3000 BCE-1756 CE)

Desert Sheikhdom (1756-1899)

British Protectorate (1899-1961)

Independence and Nationhood (1961-1990)

Invasion and Occupation (1990-1991)

Liberation (1991)

Reconstruction (1992-1999)

Kuwait Today (2000-Present)