Discover Morocco
A Short History of Morocco
Morocco's history cannot be reduced to a succession of dynasties. Amazigh communities, Mediterranean trade, Islamic scholarship, trans-Saharan connections, Jewish heritage, colonial rule and independence all shaped the country.
Published October 2026
Early Morocco
Amazigh communities have deep roots in North Africa. Mediterranean trade connected the region with Phoenician and Roman worlds. Volubilis preserves the remains of a Mauretanian town that later became part of a Roman province.
Dynasties and historic cities
The Idrisids emerged in the late eighth century. The Almoravid, Almohad, Marinid, Saadian and Alaouite dynasties shaped different periods of Morocco's history. Fes, Marrakech, Meknes and Rabat preserve traces of this history. The Alaouite dynasty continues to reign today.
Trade and communities
Trade routes linked Morocco with the Mediterranean and regions south of the Sahara. Jewish communities have been part of Moroccan society for centuries and remain so today; the 2011 Constitution recognises Hebraic heritage as part of the country's identity.
Protectorates and independence
France established a protectorate over much of Morocco in 1912, while Spain controlled zones in the north and south. Resistance and the nationalist movement contributed to the struggle for independence. Sultan Mohammed V was exiled in 1953 and returned in November 1955. Morocco regained independence from France and Spain's northern protectorate in 1956.
Modern Morocco
Morocco has undergone significant urban and economic development since independence. The 2011 Constitution made Amazigh an official language alongside Arabic. For a closer look at present-day developments, see Morocco 2030.