The majority converted to Islam in the 7th century AD . Oman was ruled by Muslim leaders known as imams until 1154, when a dynasty of kings was established. Portugal gained control of the Omani coast in 1507 but was forced out by local Arabs in 1650. There have been several insurrections since the early 18th century, but the last of these ended in 1959 when British troops helped restore peace. Modernization of Oman began in 1970 when Sultan Qabus ibn Sa'id launched a program of social reforms and economic development.
Oman is an absolute monarchy.
There is no formal constitution or legislature, and there are no political parties. The sultan appoints a council to assist him. The country is divided into 50 governorates. Each has a governor who is appointed by the sultan. The legal system is based on the Koran, the holy book of Islam.