Moroccans commemorate the 66th anniversary of King Mohammed V’s death, reflecting on his pivotal role in the nation’s independence. Born in 1909, he led crucial moments during Morocco’s fight for freedom from the French protectorate, including the Independence Manifesto and his opposition to colonial repression. His return from exile in 1955 marked Morocco’s journey to independence, establishing a legacy of sovereign leadership that continues to influence the country today.
Today, March 10, 2025, marks the 66th anniversary of King Mohammed V’s passing, a pivotal figure in Morocco’s independence movement. His death on February 26, 1961, occurred shortly after Morocco’s liberation, leaving a significant legacy in the nation’s history. Born on August 10, 1909, in Fez, he became king in 1927 as the third son of Sultan Moulay Youssef, navigating the complexities of Morocco’s political landscape during the French protectorate established by the 1912 Treaty of Fez.
On January 11, 1944, the presentation of the Independence Manifesto proved to be a significant moment in the fight for freedom, reflecting the collaboration between the monarchy, the national movement, and the populace. The call for independence gained strength when Mohammed V delivered a pivotal speech in Tangier on April 10, 1947, formally demanding Morocco’s liberation. During this turmoil, Thami El Glaoui, the Pasha of Marrakech, (allegedly) conspired with French General Alphonse Juin to attempt a coup against the sultan.
In reaction to rising independence sentiments, Mohammed V and his family were exiled in August 1953, first to Corsica and subsequently to Madagascar. Contrary to the colonial authorities’ intentions, this exile ignited substantial uprisings and armed resistance against colonial rule. The sultan’s exile concluded with his return on November 16, 1955, paving the way for Morocco’s independence in 1956. He was officially proclaimed King in August 1957, opening a new chapter in Morocco’s history.
During World War II, Mohammed V’s leadership was characterized by strategic diplomacy, as he preserved relations with France while safeguarding Moroccan interests. His opposition to the Vichy government’s anti-Jewish policies is notable, and he actively participated in the Anfa and Casablanca conferences, engaging with President Roosevelt about Morocco’s future.
After denying a joint protectorate proposal in 1943 from US-British-French-Spanish interests, he remained resolute in his aspiration for complete independence. Following his death in 1961, King Hassan II succeeded him, marking the end of Mohammed V’s significant influence on Morocco’s transition from protectorate to a sovereign state. Today’s remembrance highlights this pivotal era in Morocco’s history and the cooperative struggle led by the monarchy and the national movement for sovereignty.
King Mohammed V’s legacy as an architect of Morocco’s independence is commemorated today, underlining his strategic leadership and the unified efforts of the monarchy and national movements. His journey from exile to king exemplifies the resilience of the Moroccan people and the successful culmination of their struggle for sovereignty. The anniversary serves as a reminder of the historical transition from a protectorate to an independent state and the ongoing impact of his reign on modern Morocco.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
