Faisal of Saudi Arabia

King Faisal bin Abdulaziz

Faisal of Saudi Arabia
Title	King of Saudi Arabia
Reign	2 November 1964 – 25 March 1975
Coronation
Predecessor	Saud
Successor	Khalid
Spouse
Issue
Full Name	Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
House	House of Saud
Father	Ibn Saud
Mother	Tarfa bint Abdullah Al Sheikh
Birth Date	14 April 1906
Birth Place	Riyadh, Emirate of Nejd and Hasa
Death Date	25 March 1975 (aged 68)
Death Place	Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Burial Date	26 March 1975
Burial Place	Al Oud cemetery, Riyadh

Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud (14 April 1906 – 25 March 1975) was the King of Saudi Arabia from 1964 to 1975. He was the third son of Ibn Saud, the founder of modern Saudi Arabia, and played a significant role in the country's development and modernization.

Early Life

Faisal was born in Riyadh in 1906 to Ibn Saud and Tarfa bint Abdullah Al Sheikh. He was educated in Islamic and Arab traditions and was known for his intelligence and leadership skills from a young age.

Political Career

Faisal held various governmental positions before becoming king. He served as the Foreign Minister and Prime Minister and was instrumental in shaping Saudi Arabia's foreign policy. He was a key figure in the establishment of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and played a significant role in the Arab-Israeli conflict.

Reign as King

Faisal became king in 1964 after the deposition of his half-brother, Saud. His reign was marked by efforts to modernize the country, including the development of infrastructure, education, and healthcare. He also implemented significant economic reforms, particularly in the oil industry, which greatly increased the country's wealth.

Faisal was a strong advocate for Pan-Islamism and worked to strengthen ties with other Muslim countries. He was also a vocal critic of Israel and supported the Palestinian cause.

Assassination

King Faisal was assassinated on 25 March 1975 by his nephew, Faisal bin Musaid. His death was a significant event in Saudi Arabian history, and he was succeeded by his half-brother, Khalid.

Legacy

Faisal is remembered for his efforts to modernize Saudi Arabia and for his role in shaping the country's foreign policy. His reign is often seen as a period of significant progress and development for Saudi Arabia.

See Also

• House of Saud
• History of Saudi Arabia
• List of rulers of Saudi Arabia
• Saudi Arabian oil industry