Memories from Beersheba: The Bedouin Palestine Police and the Frontiers of the Empire

Abstract

This article examines British-Southern Palestine Bedouin relations through the lens of collective memory and oral history interviews. It argues that British Mandatory authorities achieved a greater degree of control and stability in southern Palestine by incorporating Bedouin tribesmen into the Palestine Police and strengthening the frontier of their empire. Without the Bedouin being employed as mobile police forces, it would have been impossible to govern southern Palestine. However, there were occasions when Bedouin police supported the actions of rebels, particularly during the Great Revolt (1936–39). Nevertheless, the forces were rebuilt after the Revolt and they continued to be crucial for maintaining control during the British Mandate.