King Khalid bin Abdulaziz | Brief Biography
King Khalid bin Abdulaziz
King Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud was the fifth King of Saudi Arabia, who ruled from 1975 until his death in 1982. He was born in Riyadh in 1913 and was one of the sons of the founder of Saudi Arabia, King Abdulaziz. King Khalid was an important figure in the modern history of Saudi Arabia, and his rule saw significant changes in the country’s political and economic landscape.
King Khalid was educated in both religious and modern subjects, and he held a variety of positions in the government, including serving as Governor of the Eastern Province and as Minister of the Interior. He was known for his wisdom, fairness, and strong leadership, and he was greatly respected by the people of Saudi Arabia.
His reign began in 1975, following the death of his brother, King Faisal. He faced several challenges during his rule, including the Iranian Revolution, the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, and the rise of radical Islamist movements in the region. Despite these challenges, King Khalid was able to maintain stability and security in Saudi Arabia, and he continued to promote modernization and economic growth.
One of King Khalid‘s most notable achievements was his role in the establishment of the Organization of the Islamic Conference, an organization that brings together Muslim countries from around the world to promote cooperation and unity. He was also instrumental in the establishment of the Gulf Cooperation Council, an organization that promotes economic and political cooperation among the Gulf states.
He died in 1982, and he was succeeded by his brother, King Fahd. His legacy continues to be remembered and honored in Saudi Arabia, and he is widely regarded as one of the country’s greatest leaders. 0 0 0.
King Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud: Comprehensive Biography
King Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the fourth king of Saudi Arabia, reigned from March 25, 1975 until his death on June 13, 1982. Known for his statesmanship, efforts to modernize Saudi Arabia, and devotion to Islamic values, King Khalid presided throughout significant change prompted by oil wealth. His reign is often remembered for promoting both growth and stability in the kingdom.
Early Life
Khalid bin Abdulaziz was born in 1913 in Riyadh, into the prominent Al Saud family. He was the fifth son of King Abdulaziz (Ibn Saud), the founder of modern Saudi Arabia. His mother, Al Jawhara bint Musaid Al Jiluwi, was from a distinguished Najdi family closely linked to the Al Saud dynasty.
King Khalid received a traditional education in religion, Arab culture, and governance, which laid the foundation for his future as a leader. He grew up in a dynamic and creative period when King Abdulaziz was consolidating the kingdom.
Role in the Early Kingdom
As a young prince, Khalid was deeply involved in the political and administrative development of Saudi Arabia. He participated in several state-building missions with King Abdulaziz, and learned first-hand the challenges of integrating a vast and diverse region.
Khalid held several key positions:
1. Governor of Asir Province: Khalid managed the Asir region in southern Saudi Arabia, where he demonstrated his leadership by promoting development and maintaining security.
2. Ministerial Responsibilities: Khalid also represented Saudi Arabia internationally, including signing the United Nations Charter in 1945.
Path to King
Khalid became crown prince in 1965 during the reign of his half-brother, King Faisal. Although he was not as politically inclined as his predecessor, he served as a unifying figure within the royal family. Known for his mild nature and deep religiosity, he earned respect throughout the kingdom.
Reign as king (1975-1982)
King Khalid ascended the throne on March 25, 1975, after King Faisal was assassinated. His reign saw profound changes prompted by the oil boom of the 1970s.
Economic growth The boom in oil prices following the 1973 Arab-Israeli War brought unprecedented wealth to Saudi Arabia during King Khalid’s rule. This wealth was largely directed toward infrastructure projects, including the modernization of cities: Riyadh, Jeddah and Dhahran.
Healthcare and education: New hospitals, universities and schools were established.
Transportation: Extensive road networks, airports and ports were built to enhance connectivity.
Foreign policy:
King Khalid’s foreign policy emphasized unity among Arab and Islamic countries, balancing traditional alliances with new partnerships. Key events include:
1. Support for Palestine: Khalid remained a vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause and condemned the Israeli invasion.
2. Strengthening the GCC: He played a key role in establishing the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in 1981 to promote regional security and economic cooperation.
3. Oil Diplomacy: The Kingdom used its oil wealth strategically, influencing global markets and ensuring Saudi interests.
Consolidation of Islamic Values
King Khalid remained deeply committed to Islamic principles. His reign saw:
Renovation and expansion of the Two Holy Mosques in Mecca and Medina to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims. – Promoting Islamic teachings and funding Islamic projects globally.
Challenges during his reign
King Khalid’s era was not devoid of challenges. Key issues include:
1. Occupation of the Grand Mosque (1979): A group of extremists took over the Grand Mosque in Mecca and demanded reforms. The crisis was resolved, but it highlighted the growing influence of radical ideologies.
2. Iranian Revolution (1979): The rise of the Shia-led revolution in neighboring Iran presented a challenge to Saudi Arabia’s Sunni-dominated leadership.
3. Economic Diversification: While the kingdom prospered, overreliance on oil revenues remained a concern.
Personal Qualities
King Khalid was known for his simplicity, modesty, and convictions. He preferred a private lifestyle and steered clear of political intrigues. Despite being less politically outspoken than his predecessors, he won praise for his focus on unity and welfare. —
Health and Final Years
King Khalid suffered health problems throughout his reign, including heart ailments. In 1982, he died in Taif, leaving behind a legacy of modernization and stability. He was succeeded by his half-brother, King Fahd.
Legacy
Khalid’s reign is celebrated as a time of prosperity and progress. His contributions to Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure, education, and healthcare have continued to benefit the kingdom. King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and the King Khalid Foundation stand as lasting tributes to his memory.
Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud’s reign was characterized by transformational growth and stability. Balancing modernization with Islamic values, he laid the foundation for Saudi Arabia’s future as a leading nation in the Middle East. His legacy as a visionary and compassionate leader remains in the hearts of his people. 0 0 0
King Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud: Data Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud |
| Birth Year | 1913 |
| Birthplace | Riyadh, Saudi Arabia |
| Parents | King Abdulaziz (Father) and Al Jawhara bint Musaed Al Jiluwi (Mother) |
| Position Before Kingship | Governor of Asir, Crown Prince (1965-1975) |
| Accession to Throne | March 25, 1975 |
| Reign Duration | 1975–1982 (7 years) |
| Major Achievements | – Economic modernization through oil wealth |
| – Expansion of infrastructure (roads, airports, healthcare, and education) | |
| – Founding member of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) | |
| Religious Contributions | – Expansion of Two Holy Mosques |
| – Promotion of Islamic projects worldwide | |
| Major Challenges | – Grand Mosque Seizure (1979) |
| – Iranian Revolution (1979) | |
| – Economic diversification concerns | |
| Foreign Policy Focus | – Advocacy for Palestinian cause |
| – Strengthening ties with Arab and Islamic nations | |
| Death | June 13, 1982, in Taif, Saudi Arabia |
| Legacy | – King Khalid International Airport (Riyadh) |
| – King Khalid Foundation | |
| Personality Traits | Humble, deeply religious, and a unifying leader |
This table summarizes key details of King Khalid’s life and reign.
Frequently Asked Questions on King Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
1. Who was Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud?
Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud was the fourth king of Saudi Arabia, who ruled from 1975 to 1982. He is remembered for his focus on modernization, economic development, and upholding Islamic values.
2. When and where was Khalid born?
Khalid was born in 1913 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
3. What were the major achievements of King Khalid’s reign?
His reign saw significant economic modernization driven by oil wealth, the expansion of infrastructure (roads, airports, healthcare and education), and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) establishment in 1981.
4. What challenges did King Khalid face during his reign?
He faced many challenges, including the Grand Mosque seizure in 1979, the impact of the Iranian Revolution, and the need for economic diversification.
5. What contributions did King Khalid make to Islamic values?
Khalid expanded the Two Holy Mosques in Mecca and Medina, funded Islamic projects globally, and promoted Islamic unity and values ​​in governance.
6. When did King Khalid die and who succeeded him?
Khalid died on June 13, 1982, in Taif, Saudi Arabia. His half-brother, King Fahd, succeeded him.
7. What is King Khalid’s legacy?
Khalid’s legacy includes the King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, the King Khalid Foundation, and his contributions to Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure, education, and Islamic values. 0 0 0
Sources:
- “Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud”. Encyclopædia Britannica.
- “Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud”. Saudi Arabian Royal Family.
- “Khalid bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud”. Al-Islam.
- “KKhalid bin Abdulaziz”. The New York Times.
- “The Reign of K Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud (1975-1982)”. The Diplomat.
N.B. The article originally belongs to the book ‘Brief Biographies of Eminent Monarchs‘ by Menonim Menonimus.
Books of Biography by M. Menonimus:
- The World Writers-Brief Biographies
- Introduction to World Writers
- Introduction to World Personalities
- Love of Reputed Persons
- Brief Biographies of Ancient Thinkers and Writers..
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