The First Sultan of Zanzibar

The narrative explores the Indian Ocean's significance as a vibrant trade zone dominated by Arab and Indian merchants before the British-French rivalry transformed the landscape in the 19th century. Amidst piracy and adventure, figures like Säid bin Sultan emerged, strategically relocating the imperial capital to Zanzibar and leveraging the rivalry to strengthen Omani power, while the slave trade played a pivotal role in these dynamics. Nicolini paints a vivid picture of this tumultuous era, highlighting the interplay of commerce, conflict, and empire.