Oman - Rise to power



Sultan Said bin Taymur was a reactionary and reclusive man. Instead of using oil revenues for development projects, he insisted on their exclusive use for defense. As a result, the country experienced minimal modernization even though it prospered from oil exports. For example, until 1970, there were three schools and 10 km (6 mi) of paved roads. In protest, several educated and talented Omanis, including the then sultan's own brother, left the country to go into voluntary exile.

Qaboos grew impatient with his father's antiquated administration. With British approval on 23 July 1970, Qaboos led a coup against his father forcing him to abdicate and sending him to London in exile. Qaboos then became the Sultan of Oman.

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