The Sultanate was regarded as an imperial backwater until the early 1950s when the scale of British involvement significantly increased, which was caused by the search for oil, the requirement to demarcate regional boundaries, and the development of Oman’s armed forces. Relations with the sultans were always conducted by a handful of officials, and yet it was possible to secure a variety of economic and strategic interests at the lowest possible cost. While the sultan was an absolute ruler, officials had to work within the cultural and religious confines that are unique to Oman. These included the Sultanate’s tribal structure and Ibadi Islam which contributed to the country’s unique history.