Jordan Times
Monday, February 7, 2005
Anniversary
Jordanians today mark
the sixth anniversary of the passing of His Majesty King Hussein.
King Hussein, a direct descendant of the Prophet Mohammad, was born on Nov. 15,
1935 as the eldest son of King Talal and Queen Zein Al Sharaf. He was proclaimed
King on May 2, 1952 at the age of 18.
Throughout his five-decade rule, the late King worked hard to raise the living
standards of his people and during his reign infant mortality declined by 50 per
cent and literacy rose by nearly 160 per cent. He also struggled tirelessly to
promote peace in the Middle East and help the Palestinian people regain their
legitimate rights, playing a key role in the 1991 Madrid Peace Conference. The
late King's commitment to democracy, civil liberties and human rights helped
make Jordan a model state in the region.
Feb. 7 also marks the day King Abdullah assumed his constitutional powers. His
Majesty has continued his father's legacy, placing great emphasis on improving
the economy whilst promoting democratic institutions and political pluralism.
Their Majesties King Abdullah and Queen Rania married on June 10, 1993 and have
two sons and two daughters. Their newborn son, Prince Hashem, was born on Jan.
30 the King's birthday.