After reading a rough translation of the McMahon-Hussein Correspondence from the Jewish Virtual Library, a few questions arose on the nature of the letters.

First: What prompted Hussein to write to McMahon? Was it simply ease of access given that McMahon was based in Alexandria? If not, how come he didn't send a letter to France/Russia? Was Britain perceived to be more powerful?

and

Second: Hussein claims Arab interest in a rebellion against the Ottomans "are based upon the maintenance of the honour and dignity of their [Arab] life". How oppressive was Ottoman influence on Arabs? Can you possibly point to a wiki article or the likes that may give me a better understanding?

Thanks!