Our thematic selections : Moroccan Jews

Jewish people have been living in the region of present-day Morocco since ancient times. Their population expanded significantly in the 15th century with the influx of member of this faith who were expelled from Andalusia.

Considered dhimmi (a term for non-Muslims living in Islamic countries), the Jews of Morocco clearly experienced much discrimination, but they also received a certain level of protection that fostered the development of their communities.

Throughout history, the sultans of Morocco often acted as mediators during outbreaks of violence between their Muslim subjects and Jews, and close relationships were established at the highest levels of government between the authorities and Jewish elites.

Mohammed V expressed misgivings about the anti-Semitism of the Vichy regime, and in 1956, when Morocco gained its independence, Jews became citizens of the kingdom in their own right, on an equal footing with Muslims.

Despite living in Morocco for centuries, Jews have left Morocco en masse in the wake of disputes, notably connected to the Arab-Israeli conflict in the Middle East.

This selection is just a taste of the AWI's rich heritage. You can find out more about these subjects by exploring this portal or by visiting the Institute.