Morocco boasts a remarkably rich and continuous history of monarchical rule, stretching back well over a millennium. Since the establishment of its first identifiable ruler in 789 CE, the North African nation has been governed by a succession of dynasties, each employing titles that evolved with the prevailing political and cultural currents of their era. While designations for Morocco's leaders have historically varied, reflecting different periods of imperial power or religious authority, the modern title of "King" has been consistently used since 1957, following the nation's independence.

Today, the venerable Alaouite dynasty continues to preside over Morocco. Its current sovereign is King Mohammed VI, who ascended to the throne on July 23, 1999, continuing a lineage that has guided the country through significant periods of change and development. His reign, like those before him, carries the weight of centuries of tradition and leadership for the Moroccan people.

The Treaty of Fes: A Defining Moment in Morocco's Colonial History

One of the most defining moments in Morocco's modern history, and indeed a stark reminder of early 20th-century global power dynamics, was the signing of the Treaty of Fes. Officially known as the "Treaty Concluded Between France and Morocco on March 30, 1912, for the Organization of the French Protectorate in the Sherifien Empire" (or Traité conclu entre la France et le Maroc le 30 mars 1912, pour l'organisation du protectorat français dans l'Empire chérifien in French, and معاهدة فاس in Arabic), this document fundamentally reshaped Morocco's sovereignty for decades to come. Signed on March 30, 1912, it formally established the French Protectorate in Morocco, bringing an end to Morocco's independent foreign policy and severely limiting its internal autonomy. The treaty was a direct consequence of European colonial ambitions during the "Scramble for Africa," a period when major European powers vied for control over the continent's vast territories and strategic resources.

The circumstances surrounding its signing highlight the immense pressure exerted on the Moroccan leadership at the time. Facing significant internal unrest and the looming threat of full-scale French occupation, Sultan Abd al-Hafid was compelled to sign the agreement under duress. His counterpart was the French diplomat Eugne Regnault, representing a powerful colonial empire eager to solidify its strategic position in North Africa. The treaty effectively formalized France's influence, giving it the right to deploy troops and administer large parts of the country under the guise of protecting the Sultan from internal opposition. In reality, it was a mechanism for France to hold the actual reins of power, skillfully maintaining a veneer of indirect rule. This arrangement preserved the Sultan and the existing Sharifian government as symbolic figures, but stripped them of genuine authority.

Under the terms of the French Protectorate, the French Resident-General became the de facto ruler of Morocco, wielding absolute authority over both external relations and internal affairs. This powerful figure was the sole representative capable of conducting Morocco's foreign policy on the international stage. While the Sultan retained the ceremonial right to sign decrees, known as dahirs, these were, in practice, meticulously prepared and submitted for his approval by the Resident-General, underscoring where ultimate power truly lay. This system persisted for over four decades, profoundly impacting Moroccan society, economy, and culture, until the Franco-Moroccan Joint Declaration of March 2, 1956, finally brought the protectorate to an end, paving the way for Morocco's full independence.

Unsurprisingly, when the details of the treaty eventually reached the Moroccan populace, the news was met with widespread outrage and fierce resistance. This immediate and violent backlash culminated in the Intifada of Fes, a significant popular uprising that underscored the Moroccan people's deep-seated opposition to foreign domination and their unwavering desire for self-determination.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moroccan Rulers and the Treaty of Fes

Who is the current ruler of Morocco?

The current sovereign of Morocco is King Mohammed VI, who belongs to the venerable Alaouite dynasty and ascended to the throne on July 23, 1999.

When did Morocco establish its first ruler?

Morocco's lineage of rulers can be traced back to 789 CE, marking a continuous monarchical history spanning over 12 centuries.

What was the Treaty of Fes?

The Treaty of Fes, signed on March 30, 1912, was a pivotal agreement between France and Morocco that officially established the French Protectorate in Morocco. It effectively ceded Morocco's sovereignty to France while maintaining a facade of indirect rule through the Sultan.

What was the immediate impact of the Treaty of Fes?

Upon news of its signing, the treaty provoked immediate and violent opposition from the Moroccan populace, leading to a significant uprising known as the Intifada of Fes, demonstrating widespread resistance to foreign control and colonial rule.

When did the French Protectorate in Morocco end?

The French Protectorate established by the Treaty of Fes remained in effect until the Franco-Moroccan Joint Declaration of March 2, 1956, which paved the way for Morocco's full independence.