Moroccans and the Second World War
Not only for the Dutch but also for the Moroccans the Second World War is an encroaching period of time. Tens of thousands Moroccans in the French armed forces fight the armies of Hitler’s Germany. They are known to be very brave. Thousands die.
The people in Morocco itself are confronted with anti-Jewish legislation and the arrival of Jewish refugees. Many Moroccans hope for independence after the war as a token of gratitude for their contribution.
France and Spain
Morocco had been an independent country for ages led by a sultan when this changes in 1912. France takes control of southern Morocco and Spain takes over the northern part and the Sahara. The French recognise the importance of the sultan but in words only. They want to modernise Morocco and confiscate farmlands. The farmers oppose this and the French strike back harshly. Many are killed. With no lands or possessions many poor farmers enlist in the French army.
Sultan Mohammed V
In 1939 the Second World War begins with the German invasion of Poland. France declares war on Nazi-Germany. Sultan Mohammed V immediately declares his support. He has a message read in all mosques asking his people to make sacrifices for France.
‘Today France takes up her arms to defend French territory. It is absolutely our solemn duty to prove to the French our gratitude for all they did for us. We shall offer our resources to France and her allies and we shall not be afraid for any sacrifice.’
Sultan Mohammed V
Tirailleurs, spahis and goums
The Sultan hopes that this will lead to Moroccan independence after the war is over. Tens of thousands enlist in the French army and separate units are created: tirailleurs (infantry), spahis (light-cavalry regiments) and goums (auxiliary units attached to the French Army in Africa).