France and Spain
Morocco had been an independent country for ages led by a sultan when this changes in 1912. Francetakes 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.

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, spahis and goums.

‘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