Dr. Suad Al-Sabah chronicles Kuwait’s formative years in ‘The Two Sheikhs’
A glimpse into Kuwait’s pivotal past, preserving legacy, highlighting nation-building era in new book
Dr. Suad Al-Sabah has once again enriched Kuwait’s historical literature with her latest work, The Two Sheikhs, part of her ongoing series of documentary books exploring key stages of the nation’s history. The book focuses on Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, the ruler of Kuwait, and Sheikh Abdullah Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, the deputy ruler from 1950 to 1961, a period that marked the foundational phase of modern state-building in Kuwait.
Reflecting on her motivation, Sheikha Dr. Suad Al-Sabah said, “As I approach an age where most things appear smaller than in my youth, certain men and events remain monumental, Al-Rai daily reports
“Today, their presence feels even more profound… woven into the life and fabric of the homeland.” She added, “I wrote this book with the spirit of memory and the diligence of a researcher, aiming to preserve for future generations a luminous record of Kuwait and its men.”
The book sheds light on the pivotal contributions of Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem and his deputy in establishing modern state institutions, from government departments and police forces to clubs, cultural associations, and other civil society organizations. It also touches on the reign of Sheikh Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, providing broader historical context.
Dr. Suad Al-Sabah emphasizes that the work does not isolate the figures themselves but highlights the interplay between them, documenting their collaboration in steering Kuwait through a transformative era.
The book draws on an extensive range of sources, including Kuwaiti, British, and American archives, contemporary newspapers and magazines, and academic studies.
Published by Dar Suad Al-Sabah for Culture and Creativity, the volume spans approximately 460 pages across seven chapters, featuring a rich collection of photographs and historical documents that bring this formative period to life.
