The book describes the impact of cultural perceptions on rulers' behaviors in the United Arab Emirates, once the Trucial States. Despite differences in size, economic resources, and external political pressures, the seven emirates' rulers utilized very similar cultural expectations to gain the support of others. The author describes what has generally been only touched upon before -- the significant but largely "invisible" roles women and marriage play in the political process of tribal societies.

Includes maps of: [United Arab Emirates] (8).

1. The Economic and Political Context --- 2. The Cultural Context --- 3. Early Leaders of Abu Dhabi --- 4. Zaid the Great and Consolidation of Abu Dhabi --- 5. The Bani Sultan and the Transformation of Abu Dhabi --- 6. The Maktums (Al Bu Falasa) and the Development of Dubai --- 7. Sharja and Ras al Khaima During Early Qawasim Rule --- 8. Sharja and Ras al Khaima Separate under Qawasim Rule --- 9. Preserving Ajman Independence under Al Bu Khuraiban --- 10. Um al Qaiwain's Survival under the Mualla --- 11. The Sharkiyin and Pursuit of Fujairan Independence --- 12. The Political Culture of Leadership.