Description

In December 1983, marking precisely two centuries since the Al Khalifa family's conquest of Bahrain, the tenth ruler from the family convened 116 eminent scholars for six days of intensive discussions and debates on the history spanning 5,000 years in and around Bahrain. Named "Bahrain through the Ages," the conference was a creative initiative by Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa to honor both the 200-year rule of the family and the anniversary of his own accession to power 22 years earlier.

Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa (1933–1999) was the 1st emir of Bahrain from 1961 until his death. Born in Jasra, he became emir upon the death of his father, Salman ibn Hamad. During his 38 years as Emir, the economic transformation of Bahrain into a modern nation and a key financial center in the Persian Gulf area took place. Nevertheless, critics note that he also dissolved Parliament, giving absolute power to the royal family.