This book reassesses the reign of Sa?id bin Taymur, who was deposed by his son, Qabus bin Sa?id, in a coup in July 1970. Contemporary historiography of the period of Sa?id’s rule (1932-1970) views Oman as medieval and isolationist; Qabus’ later government is seen as progressive and enlightened, with his ascendancy to the throne often described as the ?rebirth of Oman” from its ?medieval slumber” into a thriving and prosperous Sultanate. This study refutes the prevailing view that Sa?id’s four-decade reign should be perceived as a place where time stood still. The author offers a critical look at the economic, political, social and cultural aspects of Oman during the reign of Sa?id bin Taymur. ? The Emergence of States in a Tribal Society mainly focuses on tribe?state relations, emphasizing their dynamic interaction, with particular attention paid to the relationships between the tribal groups. Uzi Rabi’s book reinterprets a significant timescale in the modern history of the Arabian Peninsula and pre-oil societies, and will be essential reading for both students and scholars of Middle Eastern history, culture and society.