Renewed British-French competition in the Sultanate of Muscut

Abstract

The study is entitled “Renewed British-French competition in the Sultanate of Muscut”. It focuses on the year 1278 AH/1862 AD, the date in which France and Britain agreed to respect the independence of the Sultans of Muscat and Zanzibar. Oman, with its two divisions, Muscat and Zanzibar, was subjected to European colonial pressure, in which both countries concluded political and commercial treaties with each of them. This paved the way for the two countries to interfere in Omani internal affairs, especially after the death of Mr. Sayyid bin Sultan Al-Yusaid, Sultan of Muscat and Zanzibar in 1856 AD. Britain exploited the dispute that occurred among his sons to divide the Sultanate to achieve its ambitions and agreed with France in 1862 AD to respect the independence of the Sultans of Muscat and Zanzibar. This matter disturbed France, which believed that its political power was equal to Britain in the Sultanate of Muscat, culminating in the conclusion of a treaty in 1891 AD with the Sultan of Muscat. Motivated by its renewed political activity in Muscat at that time, the French government elevated the Vice-Consul in Muscat to the rank of consul, and the dialogue initiated between the two parties ended with the settlement of political and commercial problems between them in Muscat.

Keywords: Muscat, Britain, France, Zanzibar, Mr. Faisal.