The Revolution of the King and the People on August 20, 1953, marked a defining chapter in Morocco’s quest for independence from France’s “protectorate.” On that fateful day, the French colonial authorities exiled King Mohammed V (then known as Sultan) in an attempt to suppress the growing Moroccan nationalist movement. Instead, it ignited a fierce resistance, uniting Moroccans in a struggle that would eventually lead to the restoration of their beloved monarch and the end of colonial rule.
The legacy of what is now known as the Revolution of the King and the People is celebrated annually. Today, 71 years later, it serves as a reminder of the kingdom’s resilience and determination in the face of colonial oppression.
When the French colonial authorities forcibly removed Sultan Mohammed V, they replaced him with Mohammed Ben Aarfa, whom they thought would be more “compliant.” But the decision backfired.
Instead, it sparked widespread outrage across Morocco. Moroccans demanded the immediate return of Sultan Mohammed V, the legitimate and symbolic leader of their nation, and an end to French colonial rule.
Moroccans asserted their right to self-determination, viewing the forced exile as a direct attack on their sovereignty and cultural identity, and demanded independence.
The movement against the French also called for the restoration of Morocco’s national dignity and the preservation of Islamic values, their Sultan being the protector of these principles.
The Istiqlal [Independence] Party played a critical role during this period, becoming the leading voice of Moroccan nationalism.
Established in 1944, the party, under leaders such as Allal El Fassi, mobilized public opinion and international support, focusing on Morocco’s right to self-determination. The party organized protests and strikes, and was instrumental in uniting various factions within Morocco’s independence movement, ultimately fostering a sense of national unity.
The Moroccan public rejected the installation of Mohammed Ben Aarfa as the new Sultan. People viewed him as a puppet of the French, lacking legitimacy and authority. Seen as a betrayal of Morocco’s fight for independence, his installation only fueled the resistance against French colonialism.
Refusing to recognize Ben Aarfa as their leader, Moroccans significantly escalated their nationalist efforts, staging protests and acts of civil disobedience across the country.
On September 11, 1953, Allal Oulfa, a young Moroccan nationalist, attempted to assassinate Mohammed Ben Aarfa during a religious ceremony at the Moulay Idriss Zerhoun mausoleum. Armed with a knife, Oulfa attacked Ben Aarfa but failed to inflict a fatal wound.
Nevertheless, the failed assassination attempt underscored Moroccans’ fierce opposition to the French-appointed ruler and the determination of the Moroccan people to see the return of Sultan Mohammed V. It served as a powerful act of defiance, symbolizing the nation’s resistance against French colonialism and its puppet government.
Although Sultan Mohammed V and his family were exiled first to Corsica and later to far way Madagascar, the King remained a symbol of resistance and unity for the Moroccan people. While his exile was marked by hardship and isolation, he continued to inspire the nationalist movement from afar.
The Moroccan people remained loyal to him, and his absence only strengthened their resolve to fight for his return and the independence of their country.
In 1955, one year before independence, a widespread belief emerged that King Mohammed V’s image could be seen in the moon.
This phenomenon was reported across the country, with many Moroccans claiming to have witnessed the Sultan’s face or silhouette in the moon’s reflection.
For the Moroccan people, this celestial vision was more than just a supernatural event; it became a symbol of hope and a sign that their exiled monarch would soon return to lead them to freedom.
It was seen as a divine endorsement of their struggle and a reassurance that their rightful King would be restored.
This mystical event contributed to the growing unity and determination among Moroccans, who felt their cause was blessed and destined to succeed.
After more than two years in exile, Sultan Mohammed V returned to Morocco on November 16, 1955.
His return was celebrated as a national triumph, signaling the beginning of the end of French colonial rule. The streets were filled with jubilant crowds, and his arrival marked a turning point in the struggle for independence.
The Sultan’s return was not just a political victory but also a powerful symbol of national unity and resilience.
Less than a year later, on March 2, 1956, Morocco officially gained its independence from France, with Sultan Mohammed Ben Youssouf restored as the leader of the nation.
His return remains a defining moment in Moroccan history, celebrated annually as a symbol of the country’s successful struggle for freedom.