"Rabi presents a fascinating account and, indeed, a striking reassessment of the long reign of Sultan Sa'id bin Taymur. Earlier studies for the most part dismissed the reign of Sa'id as "medieval and isolationist," and regarded the government that succeeded it under Sa'id's English-educated son, Qabus, as "progressive and enlightened." Rabi has studied closely Sa'id's reign, and convincingly asserts that his government "proved to be a responsive administration that adjusted itself to political and socioeconomic challenges." Under Sa'id, Muscat and Oman were united as "the Sultanate of Muscat and Oman." In 1964, oil in commercial quantities was discovered in Oman, increasing dramatically the income of the state, yet Sa'id seemed less than able to deal with some of the demands of the time. As his son, Qabus put it: "I have watched with growing dismay and increasing anger the inability of my father to use the new found wealth of this country for the needs of its people." On 26 July 1970, Qabus, joined by others in Oman, led a coup and sent Sa'id into exile. Although Sa'id's 38-year reign ended in personal disaster, his accomplishments were important, and Rabi makes a strong case for them.

Highly recommended."  - Choice.