Throne Day (Morocco)
Throne Day, celebrated on March 3 in Morocco, marks the anniversary of King Hassan II's coronation in 1961 and coincides with the nation's independence from French colonial rule in 1956. This day serves as a significant cultural and historical event for Moroccans, honoring a monarchy that dates back to the late eighth century A.D. King Hassan II, who ascended the throne following the death of his father, Muhammad V, ruled for nearly four decades, during which he implemented various modernization and economic reforms while maintaining a firm grip on governance. His reign was characterized by efforts to unify the nation amid challenges, including dissent and territorial disputes, particularly regarding the annexation of the former Spanish Sahara. The celebration of Throne Day reflects the deep-rooted traditions and the enduring role of the monarchy in Moroccan society, with King Hassan II being a central figure in shaping the country's identity. Following his death in 1999, his son, Muhammad VI, succeeded him, continuing the legacy of the Moroccan monarchy. This day not only commemorates the royal lineage but also serves as a reminder of Morocco's journey towards independence and its cultural heritage.
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Throne Day (Morocco)
Throne Day (Morocco)
Every March 3 the North African nation of Morocco celebrates Throne Day (also known as National Day), the anniversary of King Hassan II's coronation in 1961. March 3 is also the anniversary of Moroccan independence from France, which held Morocco as a colonial possession until March 3, 1956. During their period of rule over Morocco, the French preserved the native royal family out of political expediency, since the Moroccan throne dates back to the late eighth century a.d. Thus, there were Moroccan monarchs able to lead the nation after the French left.
Morocco is located in northwest Africa, separated from Spain and the rest of Europe by the Strait of Gibraltar. It has a population of approximately 28 million people, more than 99 percent of whom are Arab and Muslim. The capital is Rabat, but the largest city is Casablanca, with over 3 million people. Other important cities include Fez, Marrakesh, and Tangier.
King Hassan II succeeded to the throne when his father, Muhammad V, died on February 26, 1961. He was crowned king on March 3 of that same year, hence the origin of Throne Day. He ruled for nearly 40 years until he died of a heart attack on July 23, 1999.
During his long reign, Hassan embarked on many progressive and Westernizing reforms and encouraged economic development. However, although some nascent democratic institutions were permitted, he kept a tight rein on government. Despite several attempts on his life and the uncertain loyalty of various Arab tribes in the mountainous regions, Hassan was able to hold his country together and so became a symbol of national unity. He was generally respected at home and abroad, although his decision to annex the former Spanish colony of Spanish Sahara to the south met with international criticism, despite his claims that it was historically Moroccan territory. His son Muhammad VI succeeded him to the throne.