Morocco - A Historical Analysis

[1]

Morocco justly deserves the ancient moniker, land behind the beyond [2], yet it also must be recognized for its unusual confluence of past and present. Over time its growth into a progressive nation has bolstered its historical import and modern significance. It is a land anchored in the distant, murky past, and yet flourishing with art and culture, economic prosperity, and inspiring potential.

Morocco in antiquity was a difficult environment in which to thrive, if you were one of those early peoples who crossed the arid lands of Egypt, Libya and Algeria to reach it. Others navigated the Red Sea or The Mediterranean from the Middle East, Greece or Turkey, only to be confronted by the towering craggy, Atlas mountain range. Some pushed on till they came to fertile plains, or reached the Atlantic coastline. Not much is known about the original natives, as they left no trace other than some Algerian cave drawings.

Its 30 million inhabitants reflect lifestyles dictated by the geological strata. The forbidding terrain of the mountains protected the early inhabitants from encroachment, and they developed a society which was distinct and self-sufficient. Due to its ocean locale, Morocco was a hub for trade from ancient times. The pastoral, nomadic, desert people group who came to make up 99% of the population claim ancestors from ancient Egypt, and are said to be descendants of the biblical Noah.  This group is called the Berbers, a form of Barbar, which meant barbarian – a name given them by traders. They call themselves by an indigenous name which means “free men”. Today they still trade across the deserts, dwelling in tents, and herding livestock. Some are subsistence farmers where the terrain is agriculturally suitable. One third are concentrated mostly in the north, in the Rif region, the plains of the Atlas Mountains, and the Sous Valley. Split between Arab-Berber and Berber ethnicity over time, two thirds live in cities and on coasts. Although they share the language and are more alike than different, they consider themselves distinct. [3] They form a group that has become more politically powerful with time, even as their dialects, skin and features can vary from region to region.

The Arabs that arrived in the 7^th century brought Islam with them, and eventually converted the aboriginal peoles. The country has remained Muslim throughout the intervening millennia, strengthened and stabilized by the religions strict doctrines and the dynasties which resulted. Morocco was the only territory avoid Ottoman Turkish invasion, however, thanks to the perilous geography.

Throughout the 11^th to 19^th centuries powerful empires of the Almoravids, the Almohads, and the Merinids/Wattasids reigned. [7] During this time, Morocco became renowned for its centers of learning and arts. Although the state religion is Islam, Jews and Christians are welcome to live in Morocco, provided they avoid conversion of Muslims. It is one of few Arab countries which not only constitutionally guarantee religious tolerance [8], but actively promote advancement of women.

[5] 

[6] Imswan

Although Islamic law is the rule, women have unusual freedoms which are not commonly seen in Muslim countries. They may own property and businesses, teach at university, run for public office and practice activism. Morocco’s Islamic sect is benignly tolerant, and progress for Moroccan woman began a century ago with Sultan/King Mohamed V who once asked, “how can we have a successful society if half our citizens are denied their full rights?” [9] Unlike other Islamic countries who profess equality, Morocco practices what they preach. In 2004, Asma Chaabi was the first ever female to serve as a Moroccan mayor – of Essaouira [10], followed by Fatima Zahra Mansouri, mayor of Marrakesh from 2009-2015.[11]

[12] Asma Chaabi

 [13] Fatima Zahra Mansouri

 

Morocco sits as a jewel at the top corner of the continent. It’s abundance of natural resources and intelligent use of exportation have created a bustling economy. Hidden beneath the sands and the valleys lay precious gems, such as diamonds, iron ore, copper, tin, zinc and platinum, among others. Morocco is a top exporter of salt, as the salt beds along the coastline hold rough, raw crystals useful in cooking. But, the land is not the only source of her riches, as the oceans provide up to 65 species of fish for export, especially mackerel and sardines. [14] The desert sands of the Western Sahara contain vast phosphates deposits, some of the largest in the world. Therefore, this non-populated area has become a valuable region for the Moroccan economy, after King Hassan annexed it and Mauritania in the mid-20^th century. The area has been in dispute since that time. [15]  

Politically, Morocco is a member of both the Arab League [16] and the United Nations [17], and is a respected member of the international community. This constitutional monarchy is lineal, but there is an elected Parliament, as well as appointed officials. [18] Although Morocco escaped European colonization which partitioned the remainder of the continent in the 19^th century, they eventually came under French and Spanish dominance. The Sultan/Kings ruled, but at the behest of European stewards. Finally, in the mid-20^th century, the acting king sought independence. Shortly thereafter, King Hassan annexed Mauritania and the Western Sahara. [19] The stability of the governing bodies throughout the centuries may be attributed to the strict adherence to Islamic law, as well as the remoteness of the location. Although its strategic location gave it international access – just across from the Iberian Peninsula of Europe and on two oceans, the deserts and mountains prevented exploitation from colonization of other African nations. Higher learning was a priority, and remains so, in Morocco, and not just for men, but women, as well. Remote from Middle Eastern Islamic influence over the centuries, Morocco’s Muslim faith has remained more benign and tolerate of others, and women’s rights. This has been undoubtedly been its greatest asset.

During the 6^th century, Jews migrated following the Babylonian’s destruction of their second temple. Even today, they still reside in Morocco. Their numbers are few and elderly, but they enjoy a peaceful existence. Christians, descended from the Roman Catholics traders from centuries before left their mark on the arts. [20] 

[21] BBC Video - Roads Less Traveled

The arts are a major part of Moroccan culture, and are appreciated throughout the world. Greco-Roman influence can be seen in the famous Moroccan mosaics that are displayed prolifically.

Craftsmen learn the skill from their fathers, and spend a lifetime perfecting intricate pieces. They can be seen in local, city fountains, to the most splendid, sacred mosques. [22] These zellige patterns were borrowed from the Moors of Spain and Portugal. [23] The tesserae, or tiles,[24] reflect mathematically geometric designs in keeping with Islam’s prohibition against depicting living things. These abstract patterns tie in with Morocco’s state religion of Islam, by “encouraging the contemplation of God” and include an array of colors and tiles, from large shapes to tiny slivers. The wealthy display practical pieces for their homes as a sign of success. Scientists and scholars study the mosaics and profess to have only limited understanding within the past few decades of their mathematical significance. [25] They adorn the simplest pottery, and the largest city plazas and structures. [26] They symbolize, for the world, the enigmatic kingdom that is Morocco.

 [27] Essaouira Village

Tourism is a boon to the economy. Essaouira, a fishing village turned international destination, is a newly-popular tourist venue.[28] The metropolitan cities of the capital, Rabat, Fes, (or Fez), Tangier, Casablanca and Marrakech, all draw students, tourists and artisans, thanks to their markets, architecture, higher learning centers and combinations of ancient and modern.[29] The markets of Morocco teem with intricately-patterned rugs, geometric pottery, bright colored scarves, and other handmade products which have become world famous.

[30]Memories of Morocco

[31] Djemaa el Fna

Morocco is a delightful mix of old and new, devout faith and artistic license. The Djemaa el Fna square in Marrakech has provided sights such as street performers, snake charmers, story-tellers and more since the 11^th century. Scribes write letters for the illiterate, while herbalists sell their holistic concoctions and dispense advice. [32] Not far away students study philosophy, religion and higher math, with women studying side by side with men. Calls to prayer echo down alleyways and through courtyards, as youth on scooters share the lanes with horse-drawn carriages and stalls of spices and fresh fruit. The chatter of languages creates a cacophony of sounds – the lilt of instruments, drumbeats, language and laughter. The centuries fall away, as this only remaining venue of Moroccan antiquity clings to old ways, even as the march of progress exacts its price. To truly enjoy this cultural feast for the senses, it is best to find a spot out of the way and simply watch and listen in this place where the past, present and the future all co-mingle in colorful profusion.  

Bibliography

Images & Videos

Asma Chaabi. Getty Images. In Google Images. Accessed March 6, 2017. http://i.le360.ma/fr/sites/default/files/styles/asset_image_in_body/public/assets/images/2015/02/asmaa-chaabi6.jpg.

Colorful Fabrics. Agadir Market, Morocco. In Google Images. Accessed March 7, 2017. https://thumbs.dreamstime.com/x/colorful-fabrics-agadir-market-morocco-view-48656160.jpg.

Colorful Zellige Fountain. Rabat, Morocco. In Google Images. Accessed March 7, 2017. http://l7.alamy.com/zooms/69a594553007481b8dd8a8c94b9aa433/a-colorful-zellige-fountain-in-the-center-of-rabat-morocco-f8aepg.jpg.

Essaouira. National Geographic.com. Accessed March 06, 2017, http://video.nationalgeographic.com/video/morocco_essaouira?source=relatedvideo.

Essaouira. Essaouira, Morocco. In Google Images. Accessed March 7, 2017. http://www.irishtimes.com/polopoly_fs/1.2213913.1431691925!/image/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_620_330/image.jpg.

Fatima Zahra Mansouri. In Google Images. Accessed March 6, 2017. https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwiPwpbOr8LSAhXG3SYKHbjqBV8QjRwIBw&url=https%3A%2F%2Falchetron.com%2FFatima-Zahra-Mansouri-223092-W&psig=AFQjCNE1mZYXn1SBubaq9Af3gQmifnNidA&ust=1488906640450027.

Grand Circle. Marrakech, Morocco. In Google Images. Accessed March 7, 2017. https://grandcircle.scene7.com/is/image/GrandCircle?layer=0&size=720,405&layer=1&src=GrandCircle/T33570&size=734,489&pos-0,0&$Itin_720x405$.

Moroccan King Vows to Press Ahead with Reforms. Rabat, Morocco. In Google Images. Accessed March 7, 2017. https://cdn.modernghana.com/images/content/afp_moroccan_king_vows_to_press_ahead_with_reforms.jpg

Jewish Moroccan Family. In Google Images. Accessed March 7, 2017. http://www.ynetnews.com/PicServer2/02022009/1855245/flle-Riboh_wa.jpg.

"Map of North Africa." Digital image. Nationsonline.org. 2016. Accessed March 6, 2017. http://www.nationsonline.org/maps/north-africa-map.jpg.

Marrakech, Morocco, Produced by Maria Yarane. September 12, 2012. Accessed March 06, 2017, https://www.facebook.com/TreasuresofMoroccoFlorida/videos/482970738393601/.

Marrakech. National Geographic.com. Accessed March 06, 2017, http://video.nationalgeographic.com/video/morocco_marrakesh

Memories of Morocco. Produced by Maria Yarane. Treasures of Morocco. August 2016. Accessed March 7, 2017. https://www.facebook.com/TreasuresofMoroccoFlorida/videos/1267887746577939/.

Moroccan Modern Women. In Google Images. Accessed March 7, 2017. http://www.handsalongthenile.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/IMG-20160509-WA0002.jpg.

Morocco Landscape. In Bestourism.com. Accessed March 7, 2017. http://www.bestourism.com/img/items/big/101/Morocco_Morocco-landscape_6777.jpg.

"Musiques Traditionnelles - Maroc." YouTube. May 22, 2013. Accessed March 07, 2017. https://youtu.be/F_y16U_je_8.

Red City. Marrakech, Morocco. In Google Images. Accessed March 7, 2017. https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/80/14/17/8014178506a6253461f71b0282774ddb.jpg.

Web Sources

Bikalemesa, John Muhaise. "Natural Resources of Morocco," Fortune of Africa. March 14, 2014. Accessed February 08, 2017, http://fortuneofafrica.com/morocco/2014/02/22/natural-resources-of-morocco/.

Brett, Michael. "Berber." Encyclopædia Britannica. June 23, 2014. Accessed March 06, 2017. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Berber.

Daadaoui, Mohamed. "Party Politics and Elections in Morocco." Middle East Institute. May 1, 2010. Accessed March 06, 2017. http://www.mei.edu/content/party-politics-and-elections-morocco.

Hatoum, Leila, and Bilal Aziz. "MENA Soft Power." Newsweek Middle East. August 30, 2016. Accessed March 06, 2017. http://newsweekme.com/mena-soft-power/.

"History of Morocco - A Trip Down Memory Lane," Morocco Information | History of Morocco. Accessed February 17, 2017, http://www.marokko-info.nl/english/history-of-morocco/.

Mansouri, Fatima Zahra. "Progress for Women in the Muslim World." U.S. News & World Report. April 7, 2016. Accessed March 6, 2017. https://www.usnews.com/opinion/blogs/world-report/articles/2016-04-07/morocco-proves-women-can-make-progress-in-the-muslim-world.

"New Permanent Representative of Morocco Presents Credentials | Meetings Coverage and Press Releases." United Nations. April 23, 2014. Accessed March 06, 2017. https://www.un.org/press/en/2014/bio4579.doc.htm.

"Profile: Arab League." BBC News. February 05, 2015. Accessed March 06, 2017. http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-15747941.

 "Religious Beliefs in Morocco," World Atlas, October 27, 2016. Accessed February 03, 2017, http://www.worldatlas.com/articles/religious-beliefs-in-morocco.html.

"The Beautifully Complex Art of Moroccan Mosaics," Scribol.com, March 14, 2014. Accessed January 25, 2017. http://scribol.com/art-and-design/architecture-art-and-design/the-beautifully-complex-art-of-moroccan-mosaics/.

"Where to Find Zellige? Photo Gallery, History, Handmade Zellige and Mosaic from Morocco," Zellige.info. Accessed January 25, 2017, http://zellige.info/index-en.html.

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[1] Moroccan Flag, in Google Images, accessed March 2, 2017, https://cdn.shutterstock.com/shutterstock/videos/9991778/thumb/1.jpg?i10c=img.resize(height:160)

[2]  "The Political and Economic History of Morocco," The Political and Economic History of Morocco, accessed February 17, 2017, http://www.sjsu.edu/faculty/watkins/morocco.htm

[3] Michael Brett, "Berber," Encyclopædia Britannica, June 23, 2014, accessed March 06, 2017, https://www.britannica.com/topic/Berber.

[4] The Shape of Africa, Geographical Factors in African History, (Slide 6), prod. Hannah Schultz, 2016, accessed January 17, 2017, https://learn.liberty.edu/bbcswebdav/pid-15568040-dt-content-rid-135137625_1/courses/HIWD320_B01_201720/iSpring%20Presentations/Introduction%20to%20the%20History%20of%20Africa%20%28LMS%29/Introduction%20to%20the%20History%20of%20Africa%20%28LMS%29/res/index.htm.

[5]"Map of North Africa," digital image, Nationsonline.org, 2016, accessed March 6, 2017, http://www.nationsonline.org/maps/north-africa-map.jpg.

                  [6] Imswam, prod. Maria Yarane, Treasures of Morocco.

 https://www.facebook.com/TreasuresofMoroccoFlorida/videos/850646278302090/

[7] "History of Morocco - A Trip Down Memory Lane," Morocco Information | History of Morocco, accessed February 17, 2017, http://www.marokko-info.nl/english/history-of-morocco/.

[8]"Religious Beliefs In Morocco," World Atlas, October 27, 2016, accessed February 03, 2017, http://www.worldatlas.com/articles/religious-beliefs-in-morocco.html.

[9] Fatima Zahra Mansouri, "Progress for Women in the Muslim World," U.S. News & World Report, April 7, 2016, accessed March 6, 2017, https://www.usnews.com/opinion/blogs/world-report/articles/2016-04-07/morocco-proves-women-can-make-progress-in-the-muslim-world.

[10] Leila Hatoum and Bilal Aziz, "MENA Soft Power," Newsweek Middle East, August 30, 2016, accessed March 06, 2017, http://newsweekme.com/mena-soft-power/.

[11] Ibid., Fatima Zahra Mansouri.

[12] Abdelhak Senna, Asma Chaabi, in Getty Images, January 28, 2004, accessed March 6, 2017, http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/asma-chaabi-the-first-and-only-woman-mayor-in-morocco-poses-news-photo/2907596#asma-chaabi-the-first-and-only-woman-mayor-in-morocco-poses-27-2004-picture-id2907596.

[13] Fatima Zahra Mansouri, in Google Images, accessed March 6, 2017, https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwiPwpbOr8LSAhXG3SYKHbjqBV8QjRwIBw&url=https%3A%2F%2Falchetron.com%2FFatima-Zahra-Mansouri-223092-W&psig=AFQjCNE1mZYXn1SBubaq9Af3gQmifnNidA&ust=1488906640450027.

[14] John Muhaise Bikalemesa, "Natural resources of Morocco," Fortune of Africa Morocco, March 14, 2014, accessed February 08, 2017, http://fortuneofafrica.com/morocco/2014/02/22/natural-resources-of-morocco/.

[15] Ibid., The Shape of Africa.

[16] "Profile: Arab League," BBC News, February 05, 2015, accessed March 06, 2017, http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-15747941.

[17] "New Permanent Representative of Morocco Presents Credentials | Meetings Coverage and Press Releases," United Nations, April 23, 2014, accessed March 06, 2017, https://www.un.org/press/en/2014/bio4579.doc.htm.

[18] Mohamed Daadaoui, "Party Politics and Elections in Morocco," Middle East Institute, May 1, 2010, accessed March 06, 2017, http://www.mei.edu/content/party-politics-and-elections-morocco.

[19] Ibid., History of Morocco.

[20] Ibid., Religious Beliefs.

                [21}BBC News, , accessed March 07, 2017, http://www.bbc.com/travel/vidd-the-moulding-of-traditioneo/roads-less-travelled/20130605-pt-1-moroccan-ceramics-an.

[22] "Where to Find Zellige? Photo Gallery, History, Handmade Zellige and Mosaic from Morocco," Where to Find Zellige? Photo Gallery, History, Handmade Zellige and Mosaic from Morocco, accessed January 25, 2017, http://zellige.info/index-en.html.

[23]  "The Beautifully Complex Art of Moroccan Mosaics," Scribol.com, March 14, 2014, accessed January 25, 2017, http://scribol.com/art-and-design/architecture-art-and-design/the-beautifully-complex-art-of-moroccan-mosaics/.

[24] Ibid., Where to Find Zellige?

[25] Ibid., Moroccan Mosaics.

[26] Ibid., Where to Find Zellige?

[27] Essaouira Video, accessed March 06, 2017, http://video.nationalgeographic.com/video/morocco_essaouira?source=relatedvideo.

[28] Ibid., Essaouria.

[29] Ibid., Political and Economic History.

[30] Memories of Morocco, prod. Maria Yarane, August 2016, accessed March 06, 2017, https://www.facebook.com/TreasuresofMoroccoFlorida/videos/482970738393601/.

[31] Djemaa el Fna, prod. Maria Yarane, August 2016, accessed March 06, 2017, https://www.facebook.com/TreasuresofMoroccoFlorida/videos/482970738393601/

[32] Ibid.

Morocco Politics, Organization and Historical Change

Morocco’s political history involves invasion, war, protectorates, independence, protest, monarchy and terrorism. And yet, it remains one of the most politically stable countries on the African continent.[1] It is difficult to account for its success as a modern political entity, although it still has its fair share of lobbying for change and progress.

During the 7^th and 8^th centuries, Morocco was invaded by Arabs who brought Islam to the country. Dynasties waxed and waned over time, and eventually European countries desired areas of Morocco as their own, with protectorates being established in the 1800’s by France and Spain. [2]

[3]

The proximity of the Iberian Peninsula, and southern Europe, provided easy access for these nations who remained in power for approximately a century.[4]

Monarchy was established in the mid 1900’s, led by Sultan Mohammed, and followed by his son, King Hassan II, upon his father’s death in 1961. Hassan II ruled until 1999 when he died and his son, Mohammed VI, assumed the throne. During the intervening three and a half decades, elections were first held, followed by social unrest that led to suspension of parliament, and a failed attempt to unseat 

                                                                 [5]

the king. The Western Sahara is annexed, and years of strife with Algeria, over this territory, began. During late 90’s and early 2000’s, a ceasefire existed, and an opposition-party government was elected. Terrorists struck sites in Casablanca in 2003 and 2007,[6] and in 2011, the Arab Spring emboldened Moroccan youth to protest, as well.[7]

[8]

few years later, there were disputes with France and Spain once again, as well as the U.N., regarding different issues surrounding Ebola, and Saharan annexation. Border relations which deteriorated with Algeria in 1994 over the Western Sahara were still poor, and a shooting at the border created more dissension.[9]

A party with Islamic ties took power in 2011. Although a modern country by many standards, human rights are still not assured, especially concerning women. A 2013 law change allowed rapists to marry their young victims to avoid prosecution. Islamic law still presides, and the king above all, appointing different posts even though there are elections for parliament. But, there are numerous political parties. Protests over these issues, as well as alleged government corruption, occurred regularly until the King made some changes. However, dissent is not permitted by law and can lead to prison time.[10]  

Even with this turbulent past and the incongruous, modern-day state-of-affairs, citizens are still grateful to live in this Islamic nation, rather than in the Middle East. One acknowledged, “the country is not as repressive as many in the region…it's easy to be the "best of the worst." They prefer the stability of the kingship rather than the uncertainty that would result from lack of strong leadership. The nation’s Minister of Communication puts it like this, “It’s a process of democratization. It's a process of gradual but also significant political and institutional reforms.”[11]

                            [12] 

Daily life is generally peaceful in Morocco, and it is a popular tourist destination. There is law and order, and women have much more personal freedom than in other Islamic countries (as noted in previous blog posts). The government functions nationally and internationally and is recognized as a modern state. However, in many ways, Morocco remains a perfect example of a country with one foot stuck in the past in religion and culture, yet with the other struggling to establish a toe-hold in the modern world in politics, economy and international relations.   

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_[1] Leila Fadel, "Morocco Boasts Stability, But Critics Say the Price Is High," NPR, April 17, 2016, accessed March 02, 2017, http://www.npr.org/sections/parallels/2016/04/17/474368034/morocco-boasts-stability-but-critics-say-the-price-is-high.

_[2] "Morocco Profile - Timeline," BBC News, October 16, 2016, accessed March 02, 2017, http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-14123260.

[3] Hulton Deutsch, "Spanish Forces at Tetuan," Getty Images, January 01, 1900, accessed March 02, 2017, http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/spanish-soldiers-and-artillery-stationed-on-the-hills-of-news-photo/613493094

_[4] "Political Map of Morocco," Political Map of Morocco - Nations Online Project, accessed March 02, 2017, http://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/map/morocco-political-map.htm.

[5] Youssef Igrouane, Rabat, Morocco's House of Representatives, January 14, 2017, accessed March 2, 2017, https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Moroccan-parliament.jpg.

_[6] Ibid., "Morocco-Timeline.”

_[7] Ibid., Leila Fadel.

[8] Abdeljalil Bounhar, Protestors March in Rabat, Morocco, February 20, 2011, Rabat, Morocco, in TIME, February 22, 2011, accessed March 2, 2017, http://content.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,2045328_2045338_2052901,00.htmlA.

[9] Ibid., "Morocco-Timeline.”

[10] Ibid., Leila Fadel.

[11] Ibid.

[12] Moroccan Flag, in Google Images, accessed March 2, 2017, https://cdn.shutterstock.com/shutterstock/videos/9991778/thumb/1.jpg?i10c=img.resize(height:160)