In Morocco, the 6th of November is not merely a date on the calendar; it is a profoundly significant national holiday known as Green March Day (Arabic: المسيرة الخضراء, Al-Masira Al-Khadra). This annual observance commemorates a pivotal moment in the nation's history: a monumental, peaceful mass demonstration conducted in November 1975, orchestrated by the Moroccan government in collaboration with a vast array of its citizens and various national movements. The sole and resolute demand of this extraordinary event was the reintegration of the Spanish Sahara, a territory historically linked to Morocco, back into the Moroccan fold.

The Green March stands as a unique testament to a nation's collective will, led by the late King Hassan II. On November 6, 1975, approximately 350,000 unarmed Moroccan civilians—men and women from all walks of life—converged near the southern border with the then Spanish-controlled territory. Each participant carried a Quran, symbolizing faith and peace, green flags representing peace and the Islamic faith, and portraits of King Hassan II, embodying national unity and allegiance. This wasn't a military invasion but a symbolic, non-violent assertion of sovereignty, designed to pressure Spain into relinquishing its colonial hold on the territory.

Historical Context and Geopolitical Significance

The roots of the Green March trace back to the mid-20th century's wave of decolonization. As Spain prepared to withdraw from its colonial possession, the Spanish Sahara, a power vacuum and a complex geopolitical dispute emerged. Morocco asserted its historical ties and claims to the territory, based on ancient allegiances and geographical contiguity. The International Court of Justice, while acknowledging historical ties, did not find definitive evidence of territorial sovereignty. Against this intricate backdrop, King Hassan II conceived the Green March as an ingenious and peaceful means to reclaim what Morocco considered its rightful lands, avoiding military confrontation and leveraging popular support.

The meticulously planned march garnered international attention and ultimately influenced the fate of the territory. Spain, facing internal political changes after the death of General Francisco Franco and external pressure, signed the Madrid Accords on November 14, 1975. These accords facilitated Spain's withdrawal and transferred administrative control of the northern two-thirds of the territory to Morocco and the southern third to Mauritania (which later relinquished its claims), effectively paving the way for Moroccan administration over much of what is now known as Western Sahara.

The Enduring Legacy of Green March Day

Today, Green March Day is celebrated across Morocco with immense national pride and patriotism. It is a day of remembrance for a moment when the nation united for a common cause, demonstrating its commitment to territorial integrity through peaceful means. The event is widely taught in schools, celebrated through official ceremonies, parades, and cultural events, reinforcing the values of national unity, peaceful struggle, and the enduring connection between the Moroccan people and their southern provinces. It serves as a powerful reminder of Morocco's enduring claim to the Western Sahara, a claim that continues to be a central pillar of its foreign policy, with ongoing efforts for a political solution under the auspices of the United Nations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Green March Day

What is Green March Day?

Green March Day, observed on November 6th, is a national holiday in Morocco commemorating a large-scale, peaceful mass demonstration that took place in November 1975. Its purpose was to advocate for the return of the Spanish Sahara to Morocco's sovereignty.

Who led the Green March?

The Green March was conceived and led by the late King Hassan II of Morocco. His vision transformed a territorial dispute into an unprecedented civilian initiative.

How many people participated in the Green March?

Approximately 350,000 unarmed Moroccan civilians participated in the Green March, demonstrating a remarkable level of national unity and popular mobilization.

What symbols were carried during the Green March?

Participants in the Green March carried symbols of peace, faith, and national unity: the Quran, green flags (representing peace and Islam), and portraits of King Hassan II.

What was the outcome of the Green March?

The Green March significantly contributed to Spain's decision to withdraw from the Spanish Sahara. It led to the signing of the Madrid Accords, which effectively transferred administrative control of the territory to Morocco and Mauritania, paving the way for Morocco's administration over much of what is now Western Sahara.