Morocco celebrates its independence anniversary every year on November 18, a national occasion that symbolizes the end of the colonial era and the period of foreign protection that was imposed on Morocco since the early twentieth century. This day represents a rich history that commemorates the victory of the will of the Moroccan people and their determination to liberate their country from French and Spanish colonialism, as well as the insistence of King Mohammed V to achieve national sovereignty and the unity of Moroccan territory.
Historical background: the beginning of colonialism and Moroccan resistance
Colonization officially began with the Protectorate Treaty in 1912, which placed Morocco under French control in most areas, while Spain controlled areas north and south. Despite the harsh conditions and colonial exploitation, the Moroccan people responded to this situation, as armed resistance movements emerged in several regions.
The Rif Revolution led by Prince Muhammad Abdel Karim al-Khattabi in the 1920s highlighted the strength of the Moroccan resistance against the colonizers, and achieved strong victories against the Spanish forces, which gave hope to the region and perpetuated the spirit of resistance against the colonizers.
Shifting towards political action and demanding independence
After the armed resistance faced repression, the struggles turned to political action, with the emergence of national leaders such as Allal El Fassi and Ahmed Belafrej.
In 1944, the National Movement presented the “Independence Claim Document,” which was an official document that demanded the end of the protectorate and the recognition of Moroccan independence.
King Mohammed V supported this national movement, despite French pressure, and declared his full support for the demands of the Moroccan people for freedom. His role was instrumental in strengthening national unity and emphasizing his rejection of the policy of guardianship.
Exiling the king and inciting the national spirit
In 1953, France exiled King Mohammed V and his family to Madagascar in an attempt to stop the resistance, but this decision further inflamed the national spirit, and the Moroccan people united behind their king. Commando operations and demonstrations increased throughout Morocco, putting great pressure on France.
The return of the king and the declaration of independence
King Mohammed V returned on November 16, 1955, and was received with great hospitality. In his speech, he announced the beginning of the “greatest jihad” to build a free and independent Morocco. On March 2, 1956, the end of French protection was announced, steps for full independence began, and the end of Spanish colonialism in the northern regions was completed.
Post-independence challenges and state building
After independence, the process of building modern Morocco began, starting with the establishment of institutions and the development of education, infrastructure, and the economy. King Hassan II led this stage under the guidance of his father, Mohammed V. He continued to build state institutions and establish stability, and several achievements were achieved at the level of economic development and political reform.
The efforts of King Mohammed VI in building modern Morocco
With the accession of King Mohammed VI to the throne in 1999, Morocco witnessed a new era of comprehensive reforms that keep pace with the aspirations of Moroccans and enhance Morocco’s position at the regional and international levels. King Mohammed VI launched a number of initiatives that include:
1. The National Initiative for Human Development: It aims to fight poverty, improve the living conditions of fragile and marginalized groups, and enhance infrastructure and services in remote areas.
2. Major infrastructure projects: During the reign of King Mohammed VI, Morocco completed huge projects, such as the Tangier Med Port, which is considered among the largest ports in Africa, and the highway network and railways linking various regions of Morocco, including the high-speed train project. “Brilliant” speed.
3. Promoting human rights and legal reforms: King Mohammed VI led broad legal reforms, such as reviewing the Family Code that strengthened women’s rights, supported the independence of the judiciary, and progressed in the field of human rights.
4. Regional and international diplomacy: King Mohammed VI developed Morocco’s foreign relations, as Morocco rejoined the African Union and consolidated its relations with multiple countries, which strengthened Morocco’s position as a reliable and influential partner in the region.
5. Vision 2030 and the transition to clean energy: King Mohammed VI adopted a proactive policy in the field of clean energy, such as the “Noor” solar energy project in Ouarzazate, which is considered among the largest projects in the world.
The legacy of independence and the renewed spirit of patriotism
Morocco’s independence and King Mohammed VI’s reforms constitute a powerful symbol of the struggle for freedom and development. The anniversary of independence remains an occasion to renew the pledge to build a unified and independent homeland, and reflects the will of the Moroccan people to preserve their gains and continue working for the well-being of future generations.
Celebrating Independence Day represents an opportunity to appreciate the sacrifices of our ancestors and take pride in successive achievements, whether in liberating the nation or modernizing and developing it, which makes Morocco a model of balance between authenticity and progress in the Arab and African world.
