Kuwait: Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy
Abstract
Kuwaits optimism after the 2003 fall of its nemesis, Saddam Hussein, soured after the January 15, 2006, death of the longtime Amir (ruler) Jabir Ahmad al-Jabir Al Sabah. From then until 2013, Kuwait underwent repeated political crises that produced economic stagnation. The origin of modern Kuwait dates to the early 18th century, when the Banu Utub families of the Sunni Muslim 'Anizah tribe in the interior of the Arabian Peninsula, migrated to the area that is now Kuwait. In 1756, the settlers appointed the aba family to exercise political authority. Toward the end of the 19th century, Kuwaiti leaders aligned with the Ottoman Empire but did not come under Ottoman rule. The Al Sabah ruler known as Mubarak the Great (who came to power by assassinating his brother) later built close ties to Britain to counter Ottoman threats. An 1899 treaty basically granted Britain control of Kuwait's foreign affairs. Following the outbreak of World War I (1914-1918), Kuwait became a British protectorate. On June 19, 1961, Britain recognized Kuwait's independence.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 12, 2021
- Accession Number
- AD1139932
Entities
People
- Kenneth Katzman
Organizations
- Congressional Research Service