Sharif Hussein, also known as Hussein bin Ali, was a prominent Arab leader in the early 20th century. He served as the Sharif and Emir of Mecca from 1908 until 1924. Hussein played a crucial role in the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire during World War I, seeking to establish an independent Arab state. Hussein's efforts were supported by the British, who promised Arab independence in exchange for their assistance against the Ottomans. After the war, he declared himself King of the Hejaz, but his reign was short-lived, as he was eventually ousted by the forces of Ibn Saud in 1924.