An Analytical Study of Political and Economic Rivalries between Russia and Britain in the Persian Gulf (1820-1907)

The Persian Gulf has been always noticed as one of the strategic and important areas among regional and extra-regional countries during its vicissitudinous history. These countries have always tried to promote their economic and political status in this region. From 1820 to 1907, the Persian Gulf became the field of international rivalry. The rivalry between Britain and Russia as two world powers in the 19th century and early 20th century in the Persian Gulf forms a major part of the history of political, social, and economic changes in this region. This article aims at discussing this question that which factors made the Persian Gulf the field of political and economic rivalry between Britain and Russia From 1820 to 1907? In finding answers to these questions, the researcher tries to investigate the topic by referring to the main research sources and using descriptive and analytical method. It seems that considering the geopolitical situation of the Persian Gulf and its proximity/adjacency to India, the British-Russian rivalry started with Britain attempting to preserve its political and military profits in this region, and Russia trying to attain new interests. This rivalry was finally ended with Britain’s complete dominance over this region and the expulsion of the Russians from there in 1907.