9 Historical Facts About Qatar

Let's take a journey through time to discover some amazing stories about Qatar's past. From ancient times when people first settled here to exciting events that changed the country, Qatar has a history full of interesting things. How many of these did you know?

Ancient Settlements (6000 BCE):

Qatar's historical roots reach back around 8,000 years to the Ubaid period. Evidence of settlements, characterized by small farmsteads, intricate pottery, and stone tools, suggests sustained human habitation. These communities had strong connections to southern Mesopotamia, and present-day Iraq, as indicated by the 'Ubaid period' pottery found in Qatar.

World’s First Shellfish Purple Dye (Second millennium BC):

Purple Island is a popular site located in Al Khor. The island’s name comes from when it was the main site of the Kassite-controlled purple dye. This was a thriving industry at the time since purple has traditionally been associated with royalty. Archaeologists have uncovered items dating back to the second millennium BC, and the area was the first in the world to produce purple shellfish dye, which is why it’s also known as Purple Island.

Pearl Diving Legacy (18th-20th Century):

Pearl diving was integral to Qatar's economy and culture for centuries. From the 18th to the 20th centuries, the pearl trade was a primary source of wealth and livelihood for Qatari communities. Skilled divers ventured into the depths of the Arabian Gulf, harvesting pearls that were sought after globally, shaping Qatar's social fabric and economy.

First Ruler Of Qatar - (1851):

Sheikh Mohammed Bin Thani is the first Ruler of Qatar and one of its eminent leaders. He united the Qatari tribes and the country in a difficult stage and was known for wisdom, far-sightedness, and love of literature and poetry.

Ottoman Rule (1871-1913):

In 1871, Qatar came under Ottoman rule. This period introduced administrative changes, including appointing governors and tax reforms. However, Qatar's distance from the Ottoman center led to relatively loose control, allowing tribal governance structures to persist.

British Protectorate (1916-1971):

Following World War I, Qatar became a British protectorate in 1916. This era saw the signing of the Qatar-British Treaty in 1916, granting Britain control over Qatar's foreign affairs. British influence brought advancements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, laying the groundwork for Qatar's modernization.

Oil Discovery (1939):

The discovery of oil in Qatar in 1939 was a monumental turning point. Oil exploration revealed vast reserves, initiating a shift from a predominantly pearling-based economy to one centered around oil and gas. This discovery propelled Qatar's economic growth and positioned it as a key player in the global energy market.

Independence (1971):

Qatar gained independence from British protection on September 3, 1971. This marked a pivotal moment in its history, enabling the nation to establish its sovereignty and pursue its political and economic agendas.

Al Jazeera's Emergence (1996):

The founding of Al Jazeera in 1996 revolutionized global media. This Qatar-based news network provided an alternative perspective in the media landscape, offering extensive coverage of regional and international events, amplifying Qatar's influence on global discourse.