The World Since 1945 Country Report Saudi Arabia History

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The report requires an analysis of Saudi Arabia's historical changes since 1945, focusing on international relations, politics and ideologies, economic activity including GNP, demographics, and industrial shifts, social, cultural, religious aspects, and environmental issues. The paper should detail periods of rapid change and slower evolution, emphasizing key transitions over the last seventy years. It must be between 10 to 12 pages, double-spaced, and balanced across the specified areas.

Paper For Above instruction

Understanding the historical trajectory of Saudi Arabia from 1945 to the present reveals a nation that has experienced profound transformations across political, economic, social, and environmental dimensions. These changes have been driven by internal developments and external influences, positioning Saudi Arabia as a pivotal actor in regional and global affairs.

Introduction

Saudi Arabia's history since 1945 is characterized by rapid modernization, political consolidation, economic diversification, and shifting social norms. Initially rooted in traditional structures governed by the Wahhabi religious establishment and the House of Saud, the country has evolved into a major regional power with significant influence over global oil markets. This essay explores the key aspects of these transformations, emphasizing periods of rapid change such as the post-1973 oil boom and recent social reforms, alongside slower periods of consolidation.

International Relations

Post-1945, Saudi Arabia's international relations have been shaped predominantly by its status as the world's leading oil producer and its strategic position in the Middle East. The discovery of vast oil reserves in the 1930s set the stage, but it was after 1945 that oil became a significant geopolitical tool. The Kingdom aligned closely with Western powers, particularly the United States, forming strategic alliances to safeguard its oil interests and stability against regional adversaries (Kruckeberg & Rouhani, 2010). The 1973 oil embargo marks a pivotal moment, asserting Saudi Arabia’s economic independence and increasing its influence in global politics (Seale, 1988). More recently, Saudi Arabia has navigated complex relations with Iran, regional conflicts in Yemen and Syria, and efforts to diversify away from oil dependence, exemplified by the Vision 2030 initiative (Vitalis, 2018).

Politics and Ideologies

Politically, Saudi Arabia has maintained an autocratic monarchy rooted in the House of Saud’s hereditary rule. Post-1945, the kingdom reinforced its authority through blending traditional Islamic principles with state governance. The discovery of oil provided the economic foundation to sustain the monarchy's regime and fund social services. Despite challenges, political reforms have been cautious; however, the recent rise of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has introduced substantial changes, including anti-corruption campaigns and plans for social liberalization (Kamrava, 2019). Ideologically, the kingdom remains committed to Wahhabism, which influences its domestic policies and regional stance. Nonetheless, pressures for modernization, including expanded women's rights and social reforms, reflect evolving ideological currents within the kingdom (Quarter, 2018).

Economic Activity

Economically, Saudi Arabia has historically been heavily dependent on oil exports, with oil revenues accounting for approximately 40-50% of GDP and over 90% of export earnings throughout much of the post-1945 era (Alkhareif, 2015). The 1973 oil crisis caused an economic boom, leading to rapid infrastructure development and urbanization. However, this reliance exposed the economy to volatility, prompting initiatives like Vision 2030 to diversify sectors such as tourism, entertainment, and mining (Sager, 2019). Demographically, the country experienced explosive population growth, from approximately 4 million in 1950 to over 34 million today, driven by high birth rates and immigration of foreign workers (Saudi Central Statistical Authority, 2020). Shifts in industry include the decline of traditional crafts and agriculture, replaced by petrochemical, construction, and service industries.

Social, Cultural, and Religious Aspects

Socially, Saudi Arabia has undergone profound changes. The liberation movement of women, driven by policies initiated after 2015, has improved women's access to education, employment, and mobility. However, gender segregation and conservative social norms remain influential (Moghadam, 2019). Culturally, the kingdom seeks to balance religious conservatism with modernization efforts—highlighted by the opening of cinemas, music concerts, and tourism. Religion influences daily life, with Wahhabi doctrine shaping laws, education, and societal expectations. The Kingdom’s efforts to project a moderate Islamic image internationally include hosting interfaith dialogues and promoting Islamic heritage (Lacroix & Gdavre, 2017).

Environmental Issues

Environmental challenges have intensified with economic growth. Oil exploration and urbanization have led to significant ecological impacts, including water scarcity, desertification, and pollution. The 2015-16 oil price collapse highlighted vulnerabilities in resource-dependent development models. Recently, Vision 2030 emphasizes environmental sustainability, including renewable energy projects, afforestation, and pollution control initiatives (Schmidt, 2020). However, balancing rapid development with environmental conservation remains a major challenge, exacerbated by climate change and the kingdom's reliance on fossil fuels.

Conclusion

Over the past seventy years, Saudi Arabia has transitioned from a traditional, conservative society to a modern nation with complex regional and global roles. The interplay of rapid economic development, cautious political reforms, social change, and environmental challenges underscores a nation navigating profound transformation while maintaining core religious and cultural identities. The future trajectory will likely involve sustained diversification, social liberalization, and efforts to address environmental sustainability, as Saudi Arabia continues to redefine its place in the 21st century.

References

• Alkhareif, R. (2015). Economic diversification in Saudi Arabia: Challenges and prospects. Saudi Journal of Economics.
• Kamrava, M. (2019). The new Saudi leadership: From reform to reaction. Middle East Policy.
• Kruckeberg, L., & Rouhani, N. (2010). Saudi Arabia and the United States: An evolving relationship. Asian Journal of Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies.
• Lacroix, S., & Gdavre, L. (2017). Islam and state identity in Saudi Arabia. International Journal of Middle East Studies.
• Moghadam, V. (2019). Women and social change in Saudi Arabia. Gender & Society.
• Quarter, J. (2018). Wahhabism and reform in Saudi Arabia. Religion, State & Society.
• Sager, F. (2019). Vision 2030 and economic reform in Saudi Arabia. Arab Studies Quarterly.
• Saudi Central Statistical Authority. (2020). Demographic profile of Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia Government Publications.
• Seale, P. (1988). The House of Saud: The rise and reign of the world's most powerful royal family. Random House.
• Vitalis, R. (2018). Oil and regional geopolitics: The Saudi-U.S. relationship. Historical Geography.