The Kingdom of Morocco is a Muslim country in western North Africa, with coastlines on the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Just an hour ferry ride from Spain, the country has a unique mix of Arab, Berber, African and European cultural influences.
Morocco has a rich history that began with the Berber and has been ruled by many dynasties. Spanish and Portuguese influences have contributed to a rich cultural heritage that every Moroccan is proud of. Let us take a trip down memory lane.
The kingdom of Morocco that is at the crossroad of Europe and Africa is an awe-inspiring country with its beautiful culture and interesting history. The country has a very strong sense of culture. Various rulers that ruled the country influenced the country’s cultural diversity. The original inhabitants are, however, the Berber people. They were general big tribes with rules laid down by their leader, and these rules would not even be the same for two Berber tribes.
The Berber tribes were far removed from each other, and this was one reason why Morocco was often invaded. In the 12th century B.C Phoenicians were the first invaders to the country, who conquered most of the coastal regions easily. The Carthaginians in turn defeated them later. They set up their trade routes and developed trade with the Berber tribes. By the 5th Century B.C they had extended their domination across most of North Africa. The Berber kings ruled in the shadow of the Carthage and Rome. In 2nd century B.C, the Romans attacked the country and captured all Carthage strongholds. The Romans generally controlled their territories with alliances with the tribes. The Mauri or the Moors also ruled the region and the whole area were called as Mauretania. Christianity was also introduced in the second century, and there were some converts in towns and Berber slaves and farmers. There were schismatic and heretical movements, and a substantial Jewish population also grew.
The Arabs conquered this country in the 7th century and introduced their civilization. Islam found following and many Berbers also converted. They shaped Islam in their own image and embraced schismatic Muslim sects. During 741 – 1058 the region of Barghawata became the first Muslim country. The region then overcame control of the Abbasid Caliphate in Baghdad under Idris Ibn Abdallah who founded the Idrisid Dynasty. Morocco became a major centre of learning. The 11th and 12th centuries saw the Berber dynasties growing and replacing the Arab Idrisids. These dynasties were led by religious reformers and were based on a tribal confederation that dominated the Maghrib for around 200 years. The Saadi Dynasty ruled from 1511 to 1659 and the Alaouites have been the dynasty in power since the 17th century. Short but intense fights between the various tribes left the country instable for some years. However, Ahmed I al Mansur was able to rule the country better and bring stability to the country. This helped the country flourish and between 1579 and 1603, the Jews and Moors from Spain also settled down in the country. Each added to the culture and art of Morocco, and you can glimpse it even now.
Each country has its own history: historical facts, events and important milestones that gave the country its true historical value. The history of a country is one of the events considered worthy of remembrance, which perfectly applies to Morocco. With several dynasties that have succeeded one another over the years: the Idrisside dynasty, the Almoravid dynasty, the Almohad dynasty, the Merinid dynasty, the Saadian dynasty and the Alaouite dynasty, Morocco has gained international consideration as a multicultural country, with several types of heritage recognized as World Heritage by UNESCO. Morocco is one of the go-to destinations for discovery lovers, the most fascinated by nature, history, the art of living and Moroccan hospitality. The experience gained during their journeys in Morocco leave them pleasantly satisfied with their stay.
The Idrisside dynasty was the first to conquer Morocco for more than a century. Its founder was Idriss the 1st famous for making Volubilis (Walili) his capital. From 789 to 978, the Idrisside dynasty dominated much of the Maghreb, including the North Africa of the current Morocco. Being the founder of the first royal dynasty in Morocco, the Idrissides were able to build new cities including Fez, which became afterwards the capital after Volubilis during the reign of the son Idriss II and his successors. Several monuments are evidence of the architectural and religious works of this dynasty, such as the Al-Qarawiyin Mosque, which is one of the most important mosques in Morocco and whose architecture is an outstanding artistic masterpiece. After several years of reign, the dynasty fell to the Almoravids.
After the Idrissides, a new dynasty began reigning over the country and obtained shares of the Maghreb soil : the Almoravids. Destroying the African reign before attacking the north, the Almoravids founded Marrakech in 1062. They managed to reign over the whole Maghreb and Al-Andalus and named Marrakech as their capital. This unprecedented accomplishment was followed by the second imperial city, which became the centre of trade and a bridge between sub-Saharan Africa and the Maghreb. Among the religious artefacts that has been built there, mosques such as the Koutoubia mosque, whose construction began during the Almoravid reign, Koranic medersas, ramparts and palaces. In addition, they also built an irrigation centre to provide water for the entire region.
The Almohads won over the Almoravid dynasty in conquering Morocco. Guided at first by Îbn Toumert, the Almohads declared war against the Almoravids under religious pretext. Their Arabic name, implying the uniqueness "Attawhid", was the object of their proclamation. The architecture and culture - the two key pillars of this dynasty - are still embeded in the emblematic monuments of the city of Marrakech, the Almohad capital, through the redesign of the Koutoubia mosque, whose architecture is inspired from Giralda in Seville. The Almohad dynasty reigned thus for half a century and faded away following a defeat against the Christians in 1212.
Founded by the Amazigh Chief Abou Yahia, with Fez as its capital, the Merinid dynasty overthrew the Almohads by driving them out of the Maghreb. Their reign didn’t last long, the Merinids were defeated by the Portuguese who attacked the coast through Ceuta and the Strait of Gilbraltar. Motivated by the transmission of religious values, the Merinids built several Zaouias, mosques and Koranic medersas such as the one in Salé. Several achievements and foundations symbolize this dynasty, the decorations in wood and stucco, roofs with glazed tiles, glazed ceramics, etc. The necropolis of Chellah, located in Rabat, contains vestiges that best represents the wealth of this dynasty in terms of culture, history, architecture and religious institutions.
The Saadian dynasty had overthrown the Merinids and initially had Fez as its capital before winning Marrakech. They had declared war against the Portuguese and recovered several cities including the city of Agadir. The Saadians took Spain as their ally to protect themselves against Turkish threats. During the reign of the Saadians, Morocco experienced several years of glory which was demonstrated through culture, knowledge and wealth. The Saadians had endowed themselves with the gold of Sudan after defeating the African Empire of Songhai. They channelled their exploits by building several artistic artefacts. In Fez, they built the Borjs and gave a rejuvenation to the Al Qarawiyine mosque. In Marrakech, they built the tombs of the Saadians, the Ben Youssef medersa and the El Badiî Palace.
The Saadians were dethroned by the Alaouite dynasty. Originating from Tafilalt, the Alaouite dynasty drove out the Saadians for the sake of power. After taking Fez as a capital, itw as up to Meknes under the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail, the finally to Rabat, which has been the current capital of Morocco since 1912. Thanks to this dynasty, the city of Fez was rejuvenates, embellishing the whole city and creating protective walls such as the famous Bab El-Mansour gate. The dynasty continued its reign until today. Muhammad VI is the twenty-third ruler of this succession, ensuring the unification of the Kingdom and the transmission of all religious values.
In the 15th century, the conflict between the Spanish and Portuguese found the Portuguese in control of the Port of Ceuta. The Moroccans rose against them in 1578 and gained control of the port and also pushed them out of other coastal towns by 1700. The Alaouite dynasty was able to maintain Morocco’s independence in the 18th and 19th centuries. However, the first few years of the 20th century saw a rush of European powers and the French in particular furthering their interests in North Africa. In 1904 when France got recognition for its sphere of influence in Morocco, there were strong reactions from the Germans. A resolution was reached in 1905 -01906 and France was entrusted policing of a major portion of Morocco along with Spain who were to be the protecting power over northern and southern Spain. Under the protectorate Morocco remained a sovereign state, but the Sultan was not the ruler, though he reigned. Germany made an attempt to gain control in 1911, but war was averted, and they were given some concessions.
In 1950 the Sultan of Morocco requested for independence and when Sultan Mohammed became king in 1957 it wasn’t long after that when Spain relinquished it hold. In 1974 King Hassan undertook a campaign to claim control over the Sahara, which was owned by Spain. With his persistent efforts and tough negotiations the split was done as Morocco, Spain and Mauritania. In 1978 Polisario front succeeded in forcing the Mauritania out of the Sahara and to this day the area is a disputed territory, though a referendum organized by the UN was generally agreed upon. On July 23, 1999 King Hassan died, concluding his monarchy in modern history of a total of 38 years. His son Crown Prince Mohammed ascended the throne in July 1999 after his death. He is known for his modern views and his taking great efforts to bring about change in Morocco and lead the country to greater heights.
A modern society focused on the future Through rooted in its traditions, Morocco offers all the conveniences of modern times. Morocco is a firmly future-focused country that has succeeded in preserving its traditions and promoting its cultural heritage by harnessing them to drive development. The city of Marrakesh is a perfect example: the Medina district and its souks have an unmatched old-fashioned charm, while Guéliz and Hivernage are decked out with the most modern infrastructure and facilities. Far from being in conflict, modernity and tradition together are what makes Morocco strong. As a visitor, you will enjoy every modern convenience and pleasure. For your accommodations, Morocco is full of hotels in every price range from the major international chains. Plus, it also has the biggest international ready-to-wear shops, which are taking advantage of the ideal opportunity for positioning in a fast developing country. Morocco is striving to avoid the pitfalls of modern life, especially when it comes to the environment, by favouring tourism practices that are respectful of the Earth and local communities. As the author of a sustainable tourism charter and host of COP22, Morocco is on the front lines to preserve our planet.
Morocco has been around for thousands of years and has inherited centuries of tradition. And yet this kingdom is not the least bit frozen in time. It has a vibrant culture that is expressed each day in the little details that make up daily routines and habits, as well as in celebrations and rituals. Spend some time here and soak up Morocco's irresistible lifestyle. The best approach is to walk through her cities and villages and experience the narrow alleys of ancient neighbourhoods. This brings you close to the people: talk to them! They are certain to invite you to have a cup of Moroccan tea, a time-honoured ritual of hospitality and ceremony. You should also experience day-to-day life. Morocco and its inhabitants espouse an enviable Mediterranean lifestyle that has been recognized by UNESCO. This lifestyle comprises practices, foods and symbols that bring pleasure to every day and are sure to captivate you as well. The kingdom loves its celebrations, which punctuate the calendar. One of the types of events that bring Moroccans together are its famous moussems, festive religious events. Do not miss the Tan-Tan moussem, which is especially well known and has been listed on the Intangible Cultural Heritage register since 2008. The Essaouira Gnaouas festival is also highly recommended. These gatherings are opportunities for you to interact with and immerse yourself in the different cultures that make Morocco such a rich, diverse country. This is but a glimpse of the myriad cultures that still thrive in Morocco. Work your way across the country and get to know these treasures of Morocco's intangible cultural heritage.
The economy of Morocco is considered a relatively liberal economy, governed by the law of supply and demand. Since 1993, Morocco has followed a policy of privatization of certain economic sectors which used to be in the hands of the government. Morocco has become a major player in African economic affairs, and is the 5th largest African economy by GDP (PPP). The World Economic Forum placed Morocco as the 1st most competitive economy in North Africa, in its African Competitiveness Report 2014–2015.
The services sector accounts for just over half of the GDP. The industry sector– consisting of mining, construction and manufacturing – is an additional quarter.
The sectors that recorded the highest growth are the tourism, telecoms, and textile sectors. Morocco, however, still depends to an inordinate degree on agriculture, which accounts for around 14% of GDP but employs 40–45% of the Moroccan population. With a semi-arid climate, it is difficult to assure good rainfall and Morocco's GDP varies depending on the weather. Fiscal prudence has allowed for consolidation, with both the budget deficit and debt falling as a percentage of GDP.
The economic system of the country is characterized by a large opening towards the outside world. In the Arab World, Morocco has the second-largest non-oil GDP, behind Egypt, as of 2017.
Since the early 1980s, the Moroccan government has pursued an economic program toward accelerating economic growth with the support of the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, and the Paris Club of creditors. From 2018, the country's currency, the Dirham, is fully convertible for current account transactions; reforms of the financial sector have been implemented; and state enterprises are being privatized.
The major resources of the Moroccan economy are agriculture, phosphates, minerals, and tourism. Sales of fish and seafood are important as well. Industry and mining contribute about one-third of the annual GDP. Morocco is the world's third-largest producer of phosphates (after the United States and China), and the price fluctuations of phosphates on the international market greatly influence Morocco's economy. Tourism and workers' remittances have played a critical role since independence.
The production of textiles and clothing is part of a growing manufacturing sector that accounted for approximately 34% of total exports in 2002, employing 40% of the industrial workforce. The government wishes to increase 3 exports from $1.27 billion in 2001 to $3.29 billion in 2010.
The high cost of imports, especially of petroleum imports, is a major problem.
Morocco suffers both from structural unemployment and a large external debt.
The youth unemployment rate was 42.8% in 2017. About 80% of jobs are informal, and the income gaps are very high. In 2018, Morocco ranked 121st out of 189 countries in the world on the Human Development Index (HDI), behind Algeria (82nd) and Tunisia (91st). It is the most unequal country in North Africa, according to the NGO Oxfam.
The COVID-19 pandemic has abruptly interrupted more than two decades of sustained socio-economic progress in Morocco. In 2020 the country will suffer its first recession since mid-1990s, and the economic contraction registered in the second quarter (broadly coinciding with the confinement) is the largest on record. This is the result of the combined supply, demand and external shocks triggered by the pandemic, but also of the effects of adverse weather conditions on agricultural output. The crisis is having a severe impact on jobs and household
incomes, generating a spike in unemployment and a deterioration of poverty and vulnerability
indicators. Although the Moroccan economy exhibits some signs of recovery, the situation remains fragile given that epidemiological trends are worse now than they were during the first wave of contagions. Although the economy is still contracting, the last few months have witnessed a partial recovery of mobility indicators, and certain exports have resumed their pre-pandemic expansion. However, after a relatively mild first wave, the number of contagions began to pick up in the aftermath of the confinement, and Morocco is now struggling to flatten
the curve and reduce the pressure of COVID-19 on its health system. In this uncertain context, we expect real GDP to contract by 6.3 percent in 2020, and to return to its pre-pandemic level only in 2022.
The United States is keeping its options open on the future of Western Sahara as Morocco, which claims sovereignty over the disputed territory, is trying to garner wider international support from its European neighbours.
Morocco is seeking backing for a proposal it tabled in 2007 that would offer limited autonomy via a devolved government in Western Sahara, with tax raising and budgetary powers, though with foreign relations, security and defence remaining in the hands of Rabat.
The proposal has been rejected by the Sahrawi independence movement, the Polisario Front, which demands full independence from Morocco.
In late 2020, US President Donald Trump’s administration recognized Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in return for the kingdom officially recognizing Israel. That position was confirmed by Trump’s successor, Joe Biden, specifically by US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman, during a five-day visit to Morocco and Algeria in March this year.
Morocco was one of the first countries to recognize the newly independent United States, opening its ports to American ships by decree of Sultan Mohammed III in 1777. Morocco formally recognized the United States by signing a treaty of peace and friendship in 1786, a document that remains the longest unbroken relationship in U.S. history. Full diplomatic relations began in 1905. Morocco entered into the status of a French protectorate from 1912 to 1956, and normal diplomatic relations resumed after U.S. recognition of Moroccan independence in 1956. The two countries have a long history of working together bilaterally and regionally.
Morocco and the United States share common concerns and consult closely on security, political, and economic issues and sustainable development. The United States designated Morocco a Major Non-NATO Ally in 2004, and the U.S. and Moroccan militaries hold joint exercises and training. Morocco is a strong partner in counterterrorism efforts and works closely with U.S. law enforcement to safeguard both countries’ national security interests. The U.S. and Morocco coordinate their efforts to promote regional stability and security, including through the Global Counterterrorism Forum and the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS.
Morocco is a country where life is good, and the food is even better! Its cuisine is rich and inviting, tinged with the best of the Middle East. Spices are given pride of place: coriander, saffron and cumin elevate many recipes with a hint of spiciness in the best taste. Couscous, tagine and pastilla made with chicken or seafood are the most famous Moroccan dishes. Moroccan cuisine is world renowned and boasts incredible diversity. After all, food on the coast is not approached the same way as in the Atlas Mountains. For example, Agadir has specialized in cooking with argan oil, but in the mountains sheep are turned into mouth-watering mechouis spit roasts. Sweets are featured throughout the country; "gazelle horns", honey briouats and ghriba are tiny treats that will please the palate and win over even the most demanding gourmets. Fruits also get the royal treatment. Dates may be stuffed with marzipan or walnuts, and oranges are sprinkled with cinnamon or juiced. Tagines play with flavours; though most are savoury, they also flirt with sweet notes when flecked with prunes, apricots or raisins. At the end of the meal, a glass of mint tea – peppermint if you like – is served to warm the throat and give your belly a break!
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