66 Years Later: Commemoration of King Mohammed V, Architect of Morocco’s Independence

On March 10, 2025, Morocco commemorates the 66th anniversary of King Mohammed V’s passing. As a key figure in the independence movement, he influenced Morocco’s transition from a French protectorate to an independent nation. His leadership during critical historical moments highlights the strong collaboration between the monarchy and the national movement in achieving sovereignty.

Moroccans solemnly commemorate the 66th anniversary of King Mohammed V’s passing on March 10, 2025, corresponding with the 10th Ramadan 1446. He played a pivotal role in the nation’s fight for independence, leaving an enduring legacy in Moroccan history. King Mohammed V, who died on February 26, 1961, impacted the political landscape significantly during his rule that began in 1927, especially amidst the challenges of the French protectorate following the 1912 Treaty of Fez.

A significant milestone in the independence movement occurred on January 11, 1944, when the Independence Manifesto was presented. This initiative illustrated the alliance between the monarchy, nationalist movements, and the Moroccan populace. The Sultan further galvanized this movement with a notable address in Tangier on April 10, 1947, urging Morocco’s independence and accentuating the collective aspirations of its people.

In this period, Thami El Glaoui, the Pasha of Marrakech, sought to overthrow the Sultan with French military support, but this effort failed. The colonial authorities responded to Mohammed V’s rising influence by exiling him and the royal family in August 1953, first to Corsica and then Madagascar. Rather than stifle the independence movement, their exile ignited widespread revolts and armed resistance against colonial rule.

Mohammed V returned triumphantly to Morocco on November 16, 1955, paving the way for the nation’s independence declaration in 1956. He was proclaimed King in August 1957, marking a pivotal phase in Moroccan history. His adept leadership during World War II upheld his people’s welfare while managing relations with France, notably opposing Vichy’s anti-Jewish laws.

Participating in key discussions like the Anfa and Casablanca conferences, he prioritized Morocco’s complete independence over a proposed joint protectorate by foreign powers. After independence, he concentrated on building a modern state grounded in democratic principles. His passing in 1961 heralded the end of a transformative era, with his son, Hassan II, ascending to succeed him.

The commemorative events highlight King Mohammed V’s crucial role in transitioning Morocco from a protectorate to an independent nation and emphasize the collaboration between the monarchy and national movements in securing sovereignty.

This observance underlines the historical significance of King Mohammed V’s contributions to Morocco’s independence and reflects on the unyielding partnership between the monarchy and the national movement. His leadership not only transformed Morocco’s political landscape but also solidified its identity as an independent state. The legacy of King Mohammed V continues to resonate, serving as a reminder of the country’s struggles and achievements for sovereignty.

Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com