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Algeciras Conference
The Algeciras Conference was a meeting to discuss claim to the Moroccan ports and land. In the end, both France and Spain were given rule over these ports.
This is important because it decided an authority's rule over Morocco. Spain and France influenced the future of Morocco through their presence and guidance over the ports and fees given to them by the conference. -
Treaty of Fez
Morocco is officially named as a protectorate of France. The nation will now be influenced and protected by the French.
This is important because being under French rule allowed the nation to be protected from attack. The treaty's ruling helped shape the country of Morocco while under French control. -
Party of Independence
The people of Morocco hosted a party to initiate the desire for independence from France. Leaders met and discussed ideas for a self-governed Morocco.
This is important because this event sparks the movement for Moroccan independence in an effort for the people to take control over their own lives. -
Start of Independence
France withdraws from Morocco and removes it as a protectorate, leading to newfound freedom and self-governing power for Morocco.
This is important because of the turn of power in Morocco. The people would now be free to host elections without being ruled by the French. -
First Elections Are Held
The first elections are held in Morocco following the departure of the French. The Moroccan people now vote for a king to rule over them.
This is important because of the esteemed first votes. People are now voting for who they want to lead. The government and future of Morocco now lies in the hands of the people. -
Madrid Accords Lead to War
Under the Madrid Accords, Spain is removed from Morocco's neighboring region of the Western Sahara. Morocco is set to share the region with Mauritania. King Hassan sends 350,000 Moroccan volunteers to occupy the area, despite warning from the Algerians.
This event is important because the opportunity that awaits the Moroccans is a risk that could lead to conflict. Morocco has the opportunity to expand due to Spain's withdrawal. -
Polisario Front / Western Sahara War
The Polisario natives in the Sahara reject the Moroccan occupation and begin to rise up with the help of the Algerians.
This contributes to the Western Sahara War. Morocco fights to keep its presence in the Sahara.
This is important because this war will show Morocco's determination and force in a time of conflict. As the economic funding of Morocco begins to deplete, Morocco fights to stay on task and fight with nationalism. -
Ceasefire
The United Nations calls for a ceasefire in the Western Sahara War. The Morocco v. Polisario/Algeria conflict was in a stalemate.
This is important because it spared Morocco from years upon years of escalating war with dramatic economic costs. Morocco was unable to gain the land they fought over, but this event shows Morocco's dedication and drive in battle. -
Free Trade Established With U.S.
An agreement for free trade between Morocco and the U.S. was approved in 2004. This allowed for economic strategies and advantages to arise for both sides.
This is important for the Moroccan economy. Morocco will receive imports from the United States for no cost and establish improved ties with the superpower. Having the U.S. as a trading partner greatly improved Morocco's resources and economy. -
Arab Spring Falls on Rabat
Starting in the early 2010's, starting in 2011, the people of Morocco began to demand reform. This is a part of the Arab Spring, where neighboring regions always had protesters march on the capitals. In Morocco, Rabat was the target. People marched into the town bearing signs and protesting. They want improvements in their lives.
The Arab Spring is important for Morocco because the people need better lives, socially, economically, and rightfully. The Arab Spring protests remain present today.
