The Mazru'i's rule in East Africa 1739- 1837: A Political History Study

Abstract

This study sheds light on the history of the Mazruʿi State in the Mombasa Island in East Africa, from its establishment in 1739 AD until the end of the rule of the Busaidi in 1837 AD. The study aims to understand the political conflicts and competition between the Mazruʿis and the Sultan of Omani, Said bin Sultan, regarding sovereignty over the East African coast. The Mazruʿi state lasted for nearly a century and witnessed the rule of nine different Sultans who attempted to maintain their independence and expand their influence.

This study reveals the political inexperience of the Mazruʿi's Sultans and their failure to deal with international relations. It also discusses internal conflicts among the Mazruʿi leaders over power and the conflicts' negative impact on the stability of their rule. In the end, the Omani Sultan successfully overthrew the Mazruʿi Sultanate through military campaigns starting from 1822 to 1837 due to internal disputes and leadership rivalries.

Key words, history, Sayyid Sa ‘id, the Mazruʿi, East Africa, Mombasa.