The Soqotri people are the indigenous inhabitants of Socotra, an island archipelago in the Arabian Sea, part of Yemen. They are ethnically distinct and have their own language, Soqotri, which is part of the South Arabian group of the Semitic languages. The Soqotri people have a rich cultural heritage and a unique way of life shaped by the island’s isolated and diverse environment and nature including the strange Socotra trees that bleed when cut. They are believed to have incredible medical benefits.
Ancient Times
Socotra has a long history of human habitation, with evidence suggesting settlement as far back as the 1st century BCE. The island’s strategic location made it an important stopover for ancient trade routes linking the Arabian Peninsula, Africa, and India.
Early Colonization
- Ancient Greeks and Romans: The island was known to the ancient Greeks and Romans, who called it “Dioscorides.” According to some historical accounts, Socotra was colonized by the ancient Greeks, possibly as early as the 4th century BCE. The Periplus of the Erythraean Sea, a 1st-century CE Greek navigational guide, mentions Socotra as a trading hub for various goods, including frankincense and myrrh.
- Christianity and the 6th Century: During the 6th century, Christianity spread to Socotra, likely due to contacts with the Byzantine Empire and the Kingdom of Axum (in modern-day Ethiopia). The island’s Christian community was reportedly established by Thomas the Apostle, although this is more likely a legend than a historical fact.
- Islamic Influence: By the 10th century, Socotra had come under the influence of Islam, like much of the Arabian Peninsula. This transition was relatively peaceful, and the island’s inhabitants gradually converted to Islam over the following centuries.
Medieval and Early Modern Period
- Portuguese Period: In the early 16th century, the Portuguese briefly occupied Socotra. They were interested in the island as a strategic base to control the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean trade routes. However, they abandoned it by 1511 due to its harsh environment and lack of resources.
- Mahra Sultanate: Following the Portuguese departure, the island fell under the control of the Mahra Sultanate, based in mainland Yemen. The Mahra ruled Socotra for several centuries, integrating it into their sultanate which included parts of southern Arabia.
British Influence
- 19th Century and British Protectorate: In the 19th century, the British Empire showed interest in Socotra as part of their broader strategy to protect their sea routes to India. In 1886, the Sultan of Mahra signed a protectorate treaty with the British, making Socotra part of the British Aden Protectorate. The British influence was mostly indirect, focusing on naval and strategic interests rather than direct administration.
Modern Period
- Post-Independence: After the British left South Yemen in 1967, Socotra became part of the newly independent state of South Yemen. In 1990, South Yemen unified with North Yemen to form the Republic of Yemen, which includes Socotra.
Current Status
Today, Socotra is renowned for its unique biodiversity and is often referred to as the “Galápagos of the Indian Ocean” due to its high number of endemic species. The island’s isolation has allowed it to develop a distinct culture and ecosystem, which continue to attract researchers and ecotourists. Despite the political instability in Yemen, Socotra has remained relatively peaceful and continues to be a symbol of Yemen’s natural heritage.
