Sharif Hussein of Mecca

Sharif Hussein of Mecca was an important Arab leader in the early 20th century, known for his role in the Arab Revolt against Ottoman rule during World War I. He claimed descent from the Prophet Muhammad and served as the Sharif (governor) of Mecca, a key religious city in Islam. In 1916, he declared Arab independence, seeking to unite Arab peoples and establish a sovereign nation. His efforts, supported by the British, aimed to promote Arab nationalism. After the war, he became the King of the newly formed Kingdom of Hejaz but faced challenges that eventually led to his exile.