SOAS Research Online

Abstract

Paradoxically, the religio-commercial importance of the Meccan region turned out to be little in favour and more against the interest of the Sharifs of Mecca. They had long been compelled to acknowledge the sovereignty of various rulers and during the Burji period have also forfeited Much of the their revenue as well as their control of the administration. The present study deals with various aspects associated with the history of Mecca and shows the effect of the manifold grip of the Burji Sultans. The first two chapters concentrates on the manifestation of political activities of local Ashraf. The dependencies of Mecca have also been examined with particular reference to the elevation of certain Sharifs to the exalted position of Na'ib al-Sultan in the Hijaz and the nature of relationship between the Sharifs of Mecca and non Egyptian Sultans. Chapters III-VII of this thesis discusses the general economic condition and various sources of income and expenditures of the Sharifs of Mecca are examined. The survey reveals that the Sharifs obtained a considerable amount of money from tolls, custom dues and other sources not related to trade. These various financial gains of the Sharifs diminished greatly after 828/1425 in consequence of the diversion of most of the revenue to Cairo by the Egyptian Sultans. Their other direct or indirect exploitation had a very detrimental effect on the general prosperity of the region. The last three chapters are devoted to treat issues relevant to local administration. It shows that almost entire administration was controlled by the Sharifi officials until 828/1425. From that year onwards their authority dwindled and the Sultani officials acquired ever increasing influence and dominance. The simultaneous functioning of these two groups of officials caused occasional friction which were usually resolved in favour of the Sultani officials.