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 Until 2006, National Day was observed in Qatar on September 3rd of every year as a tribute to Independence Day of 1971. But, the state saw it more fitting to celebrate National Day on December 18 of every year, starting in 2007, as commemoration of Sheikh Jassim ‘s grasping of the reigns of power in the country. So, let’s get briefly acquainted with this man’s biography. Sheikh Jassim Bin Mohammad Al Thani was the Emir and founder of the modern Qatar. He was born in 1242 A.H., or 1826 C.E., and was able to gain the experience of conducting the state’s affairs at a young age in the town of Fuwayrit in the north of the country where he received his education under the tutelage of the greatest experts who were in attendance at his father’s court. He managed to steer the country’s politics with wisdom and success despite events difficulties. Locally, he exerted every effort towards making Qatar a unified and independent entity. Under his leadership, the country emerged cohesive and assured. He brought its tribes together under his banner, uniting all factions, and with that backing, forging a future with solid existence and borders. He deliberated and excelled wisely in diplomacy when dealing with the two greatest world powers that were competing for control of the Arabian Gulf. Those were the British Empire, which was starting to extend its influence through its government in India, and the Ottoman state, which was trying in earnest to hold on to its influence in the region after the waning of Portuguese power in the sixteenth century. In April 1871 Medhet Pasha, the Ottoman governor of Baghdad, extended his military campaign to the east of the Arabian Peninsula. At the time, British influence was also entrenched in areas adjacent to Qatar, and Sheikh Jassim determined that a balancing power was needed to face it. So he requested that the Ottoman administration in Ihsaa build up its presence in Qatar. That, in fact, happened in December 1871 when the Ottomans took Al Bidaa Fortress as a base for their military garrison. Medhet Pasha, who was the governor of Baghdad and directly administered the Gulf area, welcomed Sheikh Jassim’s initiative and appointed him Deputy Governor for Qatar in 1876. Sultan Abdul hammed also awarded Sheikh Jassim an important civil state award in 1888, and then another one of a higher degree followed in 1893. All that markedly exacerbated relations with Britain, with whom a semi-constant struggle ensued. December 18, 1878 was the main threshold for Sheikh Jassim’s ascendancy to power. It is also the beginning of the establishment of the modern state of Qatar which was achieved through his diligent efforts in obtaining the recognition of both regional powers for the independence of Qatar. Sheikh Jassim vehemently opposed the Ottomans’ attempts to increase their influence in Qatar, whether they did it through appointing administrative employees throughout government sectors or thorough reinforcement of their stationed military garrison. The result of this vehement opposition was a military confrontation that culminated in a fierce battle commanded by Sheikh Jassim. His forces made up of Qatar’s finest tribal men fought with great valor, crowning themselves with victory and defeating the Ottoman protection garrison. This was the battle of Al Wajba, which took place on March 25, 1893 at a location 15 kilometers west of Doha bearing the same name. It became a milestone in the nation’s history. The bravery of the political leaders was quite apparent despite the advantage in equipment and weapons that the Ottomans enjoyed. That prompted the people to rally behind their leader to face the audacity of the enemies who are attempting to compromise the independence of Qatar. Sheikh Jassim’s era was distinguished with security, justice and affluence. The country witnessed a comprehensive renaissance, and prosperity was widespread in all of the country’s financial and social activities. That was clear in the field of diving for pearls and using them for trade. Qatar became among the largest pearl exporting and trading countries. Ocean shipping methods evolved, and the harbor helped in increased exporting, importing and distribution activities as well. So the number of working ships in the fields of trading, diving and transportation grew; the type of work available became diversified and markets sprung up; and so, the number of inhabitants increased and building expanded and became widespread. Sheikh Jassim passed away on July 17, 1913 after a life brimming with accomplishments. His son, Sheikh Abdullah, assumed power after him. - Fahad Al-Maawda. Images: ndqatar.com    |
