Morocco

Moroccan Flag

Population: 33.01 million
Capital: Rabat
Location: Northwestern corner of Africa
Size: 172, 414 sq. miles
National language: Arabic



Morocco is located on the coast of northwestern Africa, accounting for 172,414 sq. miles (approximately the size of California). Morocco is composed of three types of regions: the Mediterranean plains, the semiarid and desert area, and the Atlas mountain ranges. The rivers, mountain ranges, and desert areas amount to a very diverse nation full of a variety of natural resources. In addition to its diverse land composition, the diverse population is speaks multiple tongues (Arabic, French, Spanish, and Darija). The population is roughly 33.01 million and approximately 98.7% Moroccans identify themselves as Sunni-Muslims.

---

Morocco Prior to Imperialism

Prior to the Spanish and French Protectorates established in 1912, Morocco lived in freedom, primarily sheltered by their geographic location, economic, and political stability. In the 16th and 17th century, Morocco had a strong, secure relationship with European powers which secured economic and political stability. Morocco's fertile lands provided a surplus of natural goods for imports and exportations. Moroccan trading pursuits brought economic security, as well as political peace between the Sultan of Morocco and rulers of other nations. However towards the beginning of the 19th century, the relationship between Europe and Morocco began to suffer from trade imbalances and lack of trust. Modernization allowed Europe to produce goods at a fast speed, while Morocco suffered in producing large amounts of goods from their lack of industrialization; European superiority became apparent. Without a military, Moroccans soon began to live in fear of potential European conquest as they observed the nearby French domination of Algeria. In hopes to gain greater strength and power, in 1848, Morocco signed the General Treaty and Convention of Commerce and Navigation under the deceiving influence of Britain. Europeans were granted trade benefits and Morocco slowly succumbed to a complete loss in power of their economy. Morocco entered the 20th century with a weak government and an alarming economic situation, ultimately causing the country to fully submit to European rule. 

Depiction of Moroccan Citizens with Sultan