Hijazi migrations to Transjordan and their role in the political and social formation of the state (1922–1946)

This article examines the migration of Hijazi clans to Transjordan and its formative influence on the emirate’s political and social structures during the early state-building period. It traces how these clans integrated into administrative and military institutions, reshaped local clan hierarchies, and contributed to the evolving dynamics of Jordanian–Saudi relations. Drawing on Hashemite and British archival documents, together with contemporary newspapers, the study employs a historical methodology supported by a critical theoretical framework to document clan movements and assess their broader sociopolitical significance. Recognizing the limitations and inherent biases embedded in colonial-era records—which often prioritize state-centered narratives—the research adopts a triangulation approach that systematically compares documentary sources with oral testimonies. The collection of oral histories posed notable challenges, as some clan elders were reluctant to acknowledge their Hijazi origins due to political sensitivities. To mitigate this constraint, multiple oral accounts were carefully cross-referenced with archival materials to enhance accuracy, reliability, and narrative coherence. Beyond reconstructing the historical trajectory of Hijazi migrations, the article critically analyzes the role of clan memory in shaping historical discourse, highlighting how generational differences and political contexts influence oral narratives. It concludes by underscoring the need for expanded Arab scholarship that integrates archival and oral sources to more accurately document the historical development of migrating clans and better understand the socio-cultural structures that have shaped their evolution over time.