The struggle for the throne of Saudi Arabia has been an important issue in the political situation since the founding of the country. The struggle within the royal family is particularly eye-catching. The rise of King Faisal is a classic historical example. Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud is the third king of the Confederated Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Since he ascended the throne on November 2, 1964, he has implemented a number of important reforms during his tenure. modernization measures and foreign policies, which have a profound impact. This article will explore how Faisal succeeded in seizing the throne from his brother King Saud through shrewd politics and strategic partnerships, and the subsequent changes in Saudi Arabia under his rule.
Faisal was born in Riyadh in 1906. As the son of Abdulaziz, the founding monarch of Saudi Arabia, his origin destined his future historical role. The young Faisal lived with his grandfather after his mother's death, and his thoughts on the Shah's changes and politics had already begun to sprout.
"Under the influence of his father, Faisal showed outstanding political and military wisdom from an early age. He was given multiple responsibilities to establish rule over Arabia."
The political situation in the kingdom began to change after Faisal became prince. Faisal successfully guided King Saud's financial direction and became prime minister in 1958. Faced with the disadvantages caused by Saud's extravagance and incompetence, Faisal gained huge support with his political wisdom at this time. His plans and reform ideas attracted praise from the royal family and religious leaders.
"Facing the challenge from Saud, King Faisal gradually gained support from the royal family and religious leaders, quickly consolidating his political foundation."
In 1964, Saud was unable to continue to govern the country due to health problems. Faisal, with the support within the royal family, successfully prompted Saud to abdicate and become the new king of Saudi Arabia. In this change of throne, Faisal demonstrated his strategic political operation ability and also gained the support of the people.
Faisal is best known for his modernization policies during his reign. He implemented a series of social and economic reforms, including the reform of the education system, the construction of medical and social welfare, and the liberation of women. In addition, he also attached great importance to foreign relations, especially exchanges with Western countries. His landmark actions, such as responding to economic pressure related to the use of oil in 1973, earned him great respect in the Arab world.
"King Faisal's important decisions not only promoted domestic modernization, but also made Saudi Arabia stand out on the international stage."
In terms of foreign policy, Faisal emphasized pan-Islamism and adopted an anti-communist and pro-Palestinian stance. His involvement in Arab affairs was influential and he shaped Saudi Arabia's position in the 1967 and 1973 Middle East wars.
Faisal's economic policies were diverse and forward-looking. He emphasized the use of oil revenue for national construction. By convening experts to assess and improve the oil industry, finances gradually improved, and so did people's living standards. However, economic growth is not only accompanied by improvements in welfare, but also by certain social tensions arising from reforms. Faisal strives to find a balance between promoting the economy and preserving tradition.
In 1975, King Faisal was unfortunately assassinated by his nephew, ending his lifelong dedication. Although his rule is over, many of the modernization policies and foreign policies he promoted are still affecting Saudi Arabia and the entire Middle East today.
What inspirations can Faisal's wisdom and perseverance display in facing the struggle for the throne provide for today's leaders?