History Of Ancient Morocco
Morocco is a country with a rich and fascinating history. Located in North Africa, the region has been inhabited by various cultures and civilizations over the centuries, each leaving their mark on the land and shaping the country's development.
The earliest known inhabitants of Morocco were the Berbers, a group of indigenous people who have lived in the region for thousands of years. The Berbers were a nomadic people who relied on agriculture, livestock, and trade for their livelihood. They were known for their skills in weaving, pottery, and metalwork, and their culture was deeply rooted in storytelling, music, and dance.
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In the 7th century AD, Arab swept across North Africa and brought with them the religion of Islam. The Arab influence is still evident in Morocco today, from the country's architecture and language to its cuisine and music.
Over the centuries, Morocco has been ruled by various dynasties and empires. In the 11th century, the Almoravid Empire was established, which expanded the influence of Islam in the region and introduced new agricultural techniques that transformed the landscape. The Almoravids were succeeded by the Almohad Empire in the 12th century, which expanded the empire's territories and built impressive architectural feats, such as the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech.
In the 16th century, Morocco was ruled by the Saadi dynasty, which was known for its military prowess and diplomatic skill. The Saadis established trade relations with European powers such as Portugal and England, and built impressive public works such as the El Badi Palace in Marrakech.
Morocco's history is also marked by periods of colonization by European powers. In the late 19th century, Morocco was divided into spheres of influence by France and Spain, which led to a protracted struggle for independence in the 20th century. In 1956, Morocco gained its independence from France, and King Mohammed V became the country's first king.
