The First Day: Birth of a nation

Summary

In the late 1960s, as the British announced their withdrawal from the Arabian Gulf, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan envisioned a united federation to secure the future of the seven Emirates. Despite initial skepticism due to the Emirates' sparse populations and lack of infrastructure, Abu Dhabi and Dubai's oil wealth facilitated the formation of the United Arab Emirates on December 2, 1971. The signing of the Union proclamation, electing Sheikh Zayed as the first president and Sheikh Rashid as the first prime minister, marked the birth of a nation. The script also highlights cultural events, such as a performance by Um Kulthum, and the international response to territorial disputes, illustrating the challenges and triumphs of the newly formed UAE.

Takeaways

• 🇬🇧 In the late 1960s, the British announced their departure from the Arabian Gulf, ending treaties that had lasted over a century.
• 🏖️ The British had provided military protection and diplomatic guidance to the Arab people of the Southern Gulf.
• 🤔 Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan envisioned a Federation of Emirates as early as before the British decided to withdraw, seeing it as a necessity for survival.
• 🏠 The Gulf Emirates were sparsely populated and lacked basic infrastructure like roads, water, electricity, and healthcare.
• 🛑 Oil exports from Abu Dhabi and Dubai provided a foundation for the economic development necessary to build a nation.
• 🤝 A deal was struck between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, leading to the formation of the United Arab Emirates on December 2, 1971.
• 📸 Photographer Bruno Bar documented the events leading up to the Federation, including the fifth anniversary of Sheikh Zayed's succession.
• 🎤 Umm Kulthum, the lady of Arabic song, performed in Abu Dhabi, marking a cultural highlight before the unification.
• 🔍 The invasion of the Greater and Lesser Tunb Islands by Iran highlighted the need for unity and a collective defense among the Emirates.
• 🏛️ On December 2, 1971, the six rulers signed the proclamation of Union, electing Sheikh Zayed as the first president and Sheikh Rashid as the first prime minister.
• 🎉 The new nation was celebrated with a 21-gun salute and the raising of the national flag, symbolizing the realization of Sheikh Zayed's dream.

Q & A

What was the significance of the British departure from the Arabian Gulf in the late 1960s?

The British departure marked the end of treaties that had kept the Gulf Emirates secure and under British influence for over a century, forcing the Emirates to stand alone in an increasingly complex world.

Who envisioned the idea of a Federation of Emirates, and why was it important?

Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan envisioned the Federation long before the British left, seeing it as essential for the survival and unification of the Emirates in a volatile region.

What challenges did the Emirates face prior to the formation of the UAE?

Before the formation of the UAE, the Emirates were sparsely populated, lacked proper infrastructure like roads, clean water, electricity, healthcare, and education, and relied heavily on oil exports from Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

When was the UAE officially formed, and which Emirates initially joined the Federation?

The UAE was officially formed on December 2, 1971. The six Emirates of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah were the founding members.

What event was celebrated in Abu Dhabi just before the formation of the Federation?

Before the formation of the Federation, Abu Dhabi celebrated the fifth anniversary of Sheikh Zayed's succession with banquets, parades, fireworks, and camel races.

Who was Umm Kulthum, and what role did she play during the celebrations in Abu Dhabi?

Umm Kulthum, known as the 'Lady of Arabic Song,' was a famous Egyptian singer who gave two highly anticipated performances in Abu Dhabi during the celebrations, attracting thousands of fans.

What gift did Sheikh Zayed present to Umm Kulthum after her performances?

Sheikh Zayed presented Umm Kulthum with a fabulous pearl necklace as a thank-you gift for her performances.

Why did Ras Al Khaimah initially hesitate to join the UAE Federation?

Ras Al Khaimah hesitated to join the Federation due to tensions with Iran, which had used military force to invade the Greater and Lesser Tunb Islands, expelling the local population.

How was Sheikh Zayed elected as the first president of the UAE?

After signing the proclamation of the Union on December 2, 1971, the six rulers elected Sheikh Zayed as the first president of the UAE.

What emotions did Sheikh Zayed's private secretary observe in him during the raising of the UAE flag for the first time?

Sheikh Zayed's private secretary, Alhaj Al, observed that Sheikh Zayed was calm and natural, showing a sense of accomplishment and reflection as he watched the UAE flag being raised for the first time, realizing that his dream of unity had become a reality.

Outlines

00:00

🏛️ Formation of the United Arab Emirates

In the late 1960s, the British announced their withdrawal from the Arabian Gulf, ending a century of treaties and leaving the Arab people of the Southern Gulf to secure themselves. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan envisioned a Federation of Emirates to unite the seven Emirates. Despite initial doubts due to the sparse population and poor infrastructure, the discovery of oil in Abu Dhabi and Dubai provided a foundation for the nation-building. A deal was struck, and on December 2, 1971, the United Arab Emirates was formed, with Sheikh Zayed as the first president. The paragraph also describes the cultural events leading up to the federation, including a performance by Um Kulthum, the 'lady of Arabic song,' and the international response to Iran's invasion of the Tunb Islands.

05:03

🌟 Realization of a Dream: Sheikh Zayed's Emotions

This paragraph delves into the emotional aspect of the federation's formation, focusing on Sheikh Zayed's reaction to the realization of his dream. It describes the moment when Sheikh Zayed saw the flag of the newly formed United Arab Emirates, reflecting his deep satisfaction and the fulfillment of his vision. The paragraph captures the essence of his leadership and the significance of the event, as witnessed by his private secretary, Alhaj Al. The narrative conveys a sense of pride and accomplishment, marking the transition from a dream to a tangible reality for the nation.

Keywords

💡Arabian Gulf

The Arabian Gulf, also known as the Persian Gulf, is a region in Western Asia that has historically been a center of trade and geopolitical importance. In the context of the video, the British presence in the Arabian Gulf was significant as they maintained treaties and military power in the region for over a century, ensuring security for the Arab people of the Southern Gulf. The British departure marked a pivotal moment, prompting the need for the Emirates to unite for their survival and security.

💡British departure

The British departure refers to the decision made by the United Kingdom in the late 1960s to withdraw from the Arabian Gulf, ending a long-standing presence and influence in the region. This event is central to the video's narrative as it catalyzed the unification of the Emirates, leading to the formation of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The departure created a power vacuum and security concerns, which were addressed by the visionary leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

💡Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan

Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was a key figure in the unification of the Emirates and the founding of the UAE. As the ruler of Abu Dhabi, he envisioned a Federation of Emirates as a means to ensure the survival and prosperity of the region post-British departure. His leadership and diplomacy were instrumental in bringing together the seven Emirates, and he was elected as the first President of the UAE. The video highlights his vision and the realization of his dream with the creation of the nation.

💡Federation of Emirates

The Federation of Emirates refers to the political union that Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan envisioned, which eventually led to the formation of the United Arab Emirates. The concept involved uniting the seven Emirates into one nation to achieve collective security, economic development, and international recognition. The video underscores the importance of this federation as a strategic response to the challenges posed by the British departure and the need for self-reliance.

💡United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The United Arab Emirates, or UAE, is a country in the Arabian Peninsula, formed by the unification of seven Emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. The video details the process leading to the UAE's formation on December 2, 1971, marking a significant historical event where the six rulers signed the proclamation of Union, elected Sheikh Zayed as the first president, and hoisted the nation's flag for the first time.

💡Self-reliance

Self-reliance is a central theme in the video, reflecting the need for the Emirates to stand alone and govern their own affairs after the British departure. It encapsulates the spirit of independence and the determination to build a nation from the ground up, despite the challenges of being sparsely populated and economically underdeveloped. The video illustrates how the vision of a unified Emirates was a strategic move towards self-reliance and sovereignty.

💡Oil Exports

Oil exports played a crucial role in the economic development of the UAE, particularly in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, as mentioned in the video. The discovery and export of oil provided the financial resources necessary to build the nation's infrastructure and establish it on the global stage. The video implies that oil wealth was a catalyst for the Emirates to come together and invest in their collective future.

💡Infrastructure Development

Infrastructure development is highlighted in the video as a significant challenge and achievement in the early years of the UAE. The transformation from desert tracks to modern roads, and the establishment of basic services like clean water, electricity, healthcare, and education, are indicative of the rapid development that followed the unification. This development was essential for the nation's progress and the improvement of its citizens' quality of life.

💡Cultural Celebrations

Cultural celebrations, such as the banquets, parades, and performances by Umm Kulthum, the 'Lady of Arabic Song,' featured in the video, showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region and the importance of unity and tradition in the formation of the UAE. These events served to foster a sense of national identity and pride among the people, strengthening the bonds between the Emirates.

💡International Relations

International relations are touched upon in the video through the incident of Iran's invasion of the Greater and Lesser Tunb Islands. This event underscores the importance of the UAE's unification for collective defense and diplomacy. The video implies that the federation allowed the Emirates to present a united front in international affairs, enhancing their ability to protect their interests and engage with the global community.

💡Flag Raising

The flag raising on December 2nd, 1971, is a symbolic moment in the video, representing the birth of the UAE as an independent nation. It is a visual representation of the realization of Sheikh Zayed's dream and the beginning of a new era for the Emirates. The flag serves as a unifying symbol and a source of national pride, as seen in the video when it is hoisted for the first time.

Highlights

The British announced their departure from the Arabian Gulf in the late 1960s, ending a century-long presence.

British military power had previously secured the Arab people of the Southern Gulf from threats.

The British diplomats had significant influence over the foreign affairs of the region.

Sheik Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan envisioned a Federation of Emirates to ensure survival post-British departure.

The idea of a federation was conceived before the British decided to leave, but their departure accelerated the process.

Doubts about the feasibility of a federation due to the Emirates' sparse population and poverty.

Infrastructure was rudimentary, with most roads being desert tracks and basic services like clean water and electricity being recent developments.

Abu Dhabi and Dubai were the only Emirates with significant oil exports at the time.

Sheik Zayed recognized the need for a nation-building effort, with Abu Dhabi and Dubai leading the cause.

A deal was struck that would lead to the creation of the United Arab Emirates on December 2nd, 1971.

Abu Dhabi celebrated the fifth anniversary of Sheik Zayed's succession with grand festivities.

Bruno Bar, a photographer, documented the events leading up to the federation, including a grand parade and fireworks.

Um Kulthum, the lady of Arabic song, performed in Abu Dhabi, marking a cultural highlight before the federation.

Iran's invasion of the Greater and Lesser Tunb Islands prompted international protests and demonstrated the need for unity.

The United Arab Emirates was officially formed on December 2nd, 1971, with the signing of the Union proclamation.

Sheik Zayed was elected as the first president, and Sheik Rashid as the first prime minister of the UAE.

The nation's flag was raised for the first time, symbolizing unity and independence.

Alhaj Al, Sheik Zayed's private secretary, recalled the emotional moment when the dream of a federation became reality.

Transcripts

in the late 1960s the British announced

they would soon be leaving the Arabian

Gulf for good ending treaties that had

bound them to the region for more than a

century British military power had kept

the Arab people of the Southern Gulf

secure from enemy threats British

diplomats had dictated their Foreign

Affairs now the seven Emirates and their

rulers would have to stand alone in an

increasingly complicated and dangerous

world one man saw that to survive the

seven must become one shik Zed bin

Sultan Al nahyan's vision of a

Federation of Emirates was born long

before the British decided to go home

but their departure was an opportunity

to make the dream a

reality some doubted it could be

achieved at the time the gulf Emirates

were sparsely populated and poor most

roads were desert tracks many

communities little more than coral and

palm front

[Music]

houses

clean water electricity proper health

care and a basic education had only

recently become commonplace Abu Dhabi

was exporting oil which had also been

found in commercial quantities in

Dubai shik Zed knew that building a

nation would be a formidable task with

Abu Dhabi and Dubai both committed to

the cause a federation a deal was struck

that would bring the United Arab

Emirates into existence on December the

2nd

1971 in the days before Federation Abu

Dhabi took time off to celebrate the

fifth anniversary of the succession of

Sheik Zed watching the festivities was

the photographer Bruno bar whose images

have left us a unique record of those

moments Banquets were

held a grand parade marched down the

Cornish followed by fireworks and camel

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races Bruno bar also shot the most

anticipated event of all a performance

by um

kulum the lady of Arabic song um kulum

arrived to a rapturous reception at Abu

Dhabi airport accompanied by her

Orchestra and

Entourage she met with she Khalifa The

Crown Prince then gave two performances

for the shakes and thousands of fans in

Abu Dhabi at a new concert hall

specially built for the

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occasion

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before leaving um Kum was given a

fabulous pearl necklace as a thank you

gift from Sheikh Zed the necklace

remained in the family after her death

in

1973 but was sold at auction two years

ago and has since returned to Abu

Dhabi

on the eve of federation rasal Kaa had

not yet decided to join the union of

Arab Emirates when Iran Used military

force to invade the greater and lesser

tomb Islands the local population were

expelled and one of the Defenders killed

prompting International protests and

demonstrations on the

streets the United Arab Emirates was

born on the morning of December 2nd

1971 the six rulers of Abu Dhabi Dubai

Shara aan um K and fua gathered at the

majus of Sheik Rashid Ina watched by the

world's press and television after

signing the proclamation of Union the

six rulers elected Sheik Zed as the

nation's first president and Sheik

Rashid the first prime

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minister

outside cannons blazed a 21 gun salute

and the audience watched as the nation's

flag was raised for the first time among

them was Sheik Zed's private secretary

alhaj Al who still recalls the emotions

on the president's face at the moment

when his dream became reality if you see

him here like

he's see his face you know he's he's

looked the

flag but something you see in his

eyes that he's thinking now okay no I I

we win now as a union we are independent

now you know when when you have a dream

and you wake up there a dream but this

is real real dream if you see

them look his eye to the flag you see

see his face it is not

angry and he is not face of pral no it

is natural you can see like it's natural

say

it is done some my dream this is the

flag so they ask they they are looking

to them why he's not

pushed the the the the the line to but

he went to see the

flood that's you see the his

face he's a

father he's he's a

master

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