History of Saudi Arabia

Flashcards covering key events and figures in the history of Saudi Arabia.

Ikhwan (Brotherhood)

Founded in 1912, it was based on strict Wahhabi Sunni Islam and provided key support for Ibn Saud.

Ibn Saud's Acquisitions (1921-25)

After the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, Ibn Saud took over Najd and Hijaz, including Mecca and Medina.

Opec Founding Member

In 1960, Saudi Arabia became a founding member of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries.

1973 Oil Boycott

Saudi Arabia led an oil boycott against Western countries supporting Israel, quadrupling oil prices.

Saudi Arabia Condemns Iraq

In 1990, Saudi Arabia condemned Iraq's invasion of Kuwait and requested US intervention.

Osama Bin Laden (1994)

Islamic dissident Osama Bin Laden was stripped of his Saudi nationality.

September 11 Attacks (2001)

15 of the 19 hijackers involved in attacks on New York and Washington were Saudi nationals.

King Abdulaziz

Ibn Saud unites his lands as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in September 1932, and takes the name King Abdulaziz

Aramco (Arabian American Oil Company)

Oil production that began in 1938 under US-controlled Aramco.

King Abdullah's Reforms (2011)

King Abdullah announced increased welfare spending and more rights for women, including voting and Shura Council appointments.