Every November 6th, Morocco commemorates a pivotal moment in its history: the Green March. This peaceful movement, which emerged in 1975, is an emblematic chapter of national affirmation, where 350,000 citizens, armed with faith and flags rather than weapons, stood up to claim Morocco’s sovereignty over its Sahara, a territory historically Moroccan for over a thousand years, supported by the allegiance of the local tribes to the Moroccan monarchy.
Historical and Political Context of the Green March
The Green March is set against a post-colonial backdrop where Morocco, recently independent, faced a century-old territorial issue: that of its Sahara. Under Spanish rule at the time, this territory was claimed by Morocco, which considered it an intrinsic part of its kingdom, a claim supported by history and the loyalty of Saharan tribes.
Planning and Initiation of the March
The initiative of the Green March was that of King Hassan II. It was an unprecedented act of national mobilization. Volunteers were carefully selected for their ability to peacefully represent the nation. With united hearts and minds, they were poised to become messengers of the Moroccan cause.
The Course of the Green March
November 6th, 1975, marks the start of this historic march. A vast crowd advanced, embodying a force of peace. This demonstration of national solidarity pushed Spain to the negotiating table. The march’s reverberation was global, casting the image of a Morocco united for justice and peace.
Results and Consequences of the Green March
The Madrid Agreement, signed on November 14th, 1975, marked the culmination of the march: Spain relinquished its presence in the Sahara. This agreement was a key moment for Morocco, reaffirming its sovereignty over these ancestral territories.
The Green March in the Collective Memory of Morocco
More than a historical event, the Green March has become a symbol of Moroccan identity. It is celebrated in schools and the arts and remains an example of a people’s ability to unite for their land and values.
The Celebration of the Green March by Moroccans
The commemoration of the Green March is a day of national pride. Tributes are paid to the marchers during ceremonies across the country, reminding of the importance of unity and peaceful aspirations that characterize the Moroccan spirit.
Conclusion
The Green March transcends its status as a historical event to embody a timeless lesson of peace and unity. It is a reminder of the collective will’s strength and a nation’s commitment to its legitimate rights and territorial integrity.
