Sharif Hussein's Revolt

Definition

Sharif Hussein's Revolt, also known as the Arab Revolt, was a military uprising that took place during World War I from 1916 to 1918, led by Sharif Hussein ibn Ali, the Sharif of Mecca. This revolt aimed to secure Arab independence from Ottoman rule and was significantly influenced by promises of support from the British in exchange for cooperation against the Ottomans.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The revolt began on June 10, 1916, with the capture of Mecca, marking the start of a series of military engagements against Ottoman forces.
2. Sharif Hussein's leadership was crucial in uniting various Arab tribes and gaining support for the revolt, as he positioned himself as a symbol of Arab nationalism and independence.
3. The British provided arms, funding, and military expertise to the rebels, significantly enhancing their effectiveness against Ottoman troops.
4. The revolt resulted in the establishment of a short-lived Hashemite Kingdom in Greater Syria, though this was later undermined by colonial interests and competing nationalist movements.
5. The consequences of the revolt included a reshaping of political boundaries in the Middle East after World War I, as well as sowing the seeds for future conflicts stemming from unfulfilled promises made to Arab leaders.

Review Questions

• How did Sharif Hussein's Revolt reflect the broader aspirations of Arab nationalism during World War I?
  • Sharif Hussein's Revolt was deeply intertwined with the rise of Arab nationalism, as it represented a collective effort by Arab leaders and tribes to seek independence from Ottoman rule. The revolt was fueled by aspirations for self-determination and unity among Arabs who felt marginalized under Ottoman governance. This revolt not only sought immediate liberation but also aimed to establish an Arab state that could foster national identity and pride.
• Evaluate the role of external support in the success of Sharif Hussein's Revolt against Ottoman rule.
  • The success of Sharif Hussein's Revolt was heavily reliant on external support, particularly from Britain. The McMahon-Hussein Correspondence set the stage for British assistance, providing not only military supplies but also strategic guidance through figures like Lawrence of Arabia. This support proved crucial in mobilizing various Arab factions and enhancing their combat effectiveness against a well-established Ottoman army.
• Critically assess the long-term implications of Sharif Hussein's Revolt on post-World War I Middle Eastern politics and borders.
  • Sharif Hussein's Revolt had profound long-term implications for Middle Eastern politics following World War I. While it aimed to establish an independent Arab state, the post-war reality saw traditional borders drawn by colonial powers without regard for ethnic or cultural identities. This led to significant unrest and future conflicts, as promises made to Sharif Hussein were largely ignored by Western powers. The artificial division of territories contributed to ongoing tensions in the region, influencing nationalist movements and geopolitical dynamics that persist today.

Related terms

Arab Nationalism:

A political and cultural movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, advocating for the unity and independence of Arab peoples across the Middle East.

Lawrence of Arabia: Thomas Edward Lawrence, a British officer who played a key role in coordinating the Arab Revolt, providing military and strategic support to Sharif Hussein and his forces.

McMahon-Hussein Correspondence:

A series of letters exchanged between Sharif Hussein and Sir Henry McMahon in 1915-1916, where the British promised support for Arab independence in return for revolting against the Ottoman Empire.