The Island of Hormuz : its politics and economy from the 14th to 16th centuries

Abstract

The Island of Hormuz, an important commercial center in the Persian Gulf, has facilitated international trade between three continents of the old world: Asia, Africa and Europe for many centuries. Before the arrival of the Portuguese at the end of the 15th century, local rulers had already achieved significant progress and development. It was known for its wealth, beauty, and luxury. The Cosmopolitan city of Hormuz was populated by thousands of people from different countries, races and beliefs. They were enjoying full justice and represented a good example of coexistence. However, following the Portuguese invasion in the 16th century, Hormuz suffered heavily. Since then, Hormuz and the Persian Gulf have witnessed many ups and down in history. This study examines the manifestations of economic development of the Island of Hormuz between the 14th to the 16th centuries, and analyses the different of socio-politic and economic factors of its rise and fall under the local and foreign rulers. The research follows the qualitative and analytical approaches, based on published and edited primary sources as well as the secondary sources available in English, Arabic and Persian. The study determines that the local Muslim rulers of Hormuz were very capable and successful in their administration and the development of their region. By providing of Justice, security, tolerance, and facilitating the trade activities between East and West, the local rulers succeeded in changing the barren Island to the developed and advanced commercial city which was visited by thousands of traders every year.