Striving for independence

Istiqlal Party

‘The French did not keep their promise to establish Moroccan independence. My father was captivated by the French, striving for it. Other family members lived in fear and had a hard time getting food. They were not allowed to farm the land of leave their city or village. I thought this was very unjust.’
Moughit Ben Daoud

Shortly before the Second World War, the first nationalist political organisation in Morocco is established. The nationalist want more influence in Moroccan administration. During the war, the wish for independence increases. In 1944 the Istiqlal Party (Independence) is founded. Its aim is absolute independence. The French arrest its leadership and demonstrations in Fès are brutally suppressed.

Gratitude

The Sultan hopes Morocco will be given her independence out of gratitude for the Moroccan contribution to ending the war. However, nothing changes much the first years after the war. The nationalists are getting impatient. In 1947 the sultan demands independence. The French keep on fighting the nationalists. It is not until 1956 that Morocco can declare its independence. Every year 18 November is Aïd el Istiqlal: Independence Day.

Commemoration

‘It is important to commemorate Morocco’s history and contribution to the allied forces during the Second World War. It is important that we all know this, Dutch as well as Moroccan. Thanks to the allied forces among which were Moroccan soldiers, we have freedom to cherish and maintain.’
Ad van Dijk