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King Faisal of Saudi Arabia

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description King Faisal of Saudi Arabia Overview

Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud (1906-1975) was king of Saudi Arabia from 1964 until his assassination in 1975. His government expanded state administration, education, infrastructure, and development programs while maintaining the monarchy's alliance with the religious establishment. During the 1973 Arab-Israeli War, Saudi Arabia participated in the Arab oil embargo; Faisal was later shot by his nephew in Riyadh and succeeded by Khalid.

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How did King Faisal become king of Saudi Arabia?

Faisal became king in 1964 when his elder brother, King Saud, was pressured into abdicating with the backing of the royal family and religious establishment. Faisal had already been running much of the government as crown prince and regent before formally taking the throne.

Who assassinated King Faisal?

He was shot in Riyadh in March 1975 by his nephew, Prince Faisal bin Musaid. The prince was captured at the scene and later publicly executed in Saudi Arabia.

What was King Faisal's role in the 1973 oil embargo?

Faisal was a leading voice behind the Arab oil embargo launched after the October 1973 Arab-Israeli war, targeting countries that supported Israel. The embargo sent oil prices soaring and reshaped global energy politics.

What modernization did King Faisal bring to Saudi Arabia?

His reign from 1964 to 1975 saw a major expansion of state administration, infrastructure, and education, including a push for girls' schooling funded by oil wealth. Introducing television in the mid-1960s sparked protests from conservative critics, illustrating the balance he struck between reform and the religious establishment.

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