This book presents an analysis of the slavery and manumission practiced in the Persian Gulf region in the first half of the 20th century. It is unique as it exposes the life stories of several hundred slaves; speaking with their own voices. A striking aspect of the majority of studies on slavery is that they provide the reader with excellent statistics and describe the mechanism of enslavement; the routes of slave trading; and the economic and social conditions of enslaved people; but slaves themselves generally remain anonymous. The premise of this book is to give voice directly to the slaves by presenting in full-length their statements made at the British Agencies in Kuwait; Bahrain; Muscat; Sharjah; and Bushire. Altogether around 1;000 statements were made by slaves asking for manumission certificates; and the analysis of these statements sheds light on various aspects of social; economic and political life on the Arabian shore of the Gulf. This analysis provides the answers to some fundamental questions in understanding the history of Arab Gulf societies; and; in particular; the role of slave labor in the pearl industry; the nature of slavery on the Arabian shore; and the conformity of social practices with religious norms concerning slavery. Given that it uncovers new aspects of the every-day life of the Arabian Peninsula; this book will also be of help to people of this region who are looking for their roots.
#1966623 in Books Rooney Francis 2015-08-15Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.96 x .98 x 6.08l; .0 #File Name: 1442248807332 pagesThe Global Vatican An Inside Look at the Catholic Church World Politics and the Extraordinary Relationship Between the United States an
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. An excellent; inside look at one of the most intriguing ...By Ed MorrisseyAn excellent; inside look at one of the most intriguing and distinct diplomatic environments in the world; from a man who served as America's envoy for three years. Former Ambassador to the Holy See Francis Rooney (now a Congressman) offers readers a concise history of the diplomatic relationship between the Catholic Church and the United States; as well as a number of personal stories used to emphasize the import of the connection between the US and the Vatican. As we transition to a new administration and a new political paradigm in the US; this insight into the opportunities and leverage afforded the US by careful maintenance and cultivation of this diplomatic relationship becomes even more crucial.Francis Rooney's writing style is engaging; informative; and effective. For those interested in diplomacy; the Vatican; or just an overview of the mostly overlooked history of American engagement with the Holy See; Global Vatican is well worth the time it takes to read it. Rooney also offered his thoughts on the openings provided by the pontificate of Pope Francis in a 2015 addendum included in this edition.
