Colonial State-Building in Morocco

Summary

In this episode of the McMillan Report, Professor Jonathan Wson, a sociologist at Yale University, discusses his book on Morocco's colonial history and the process of nation-building. He explores how French and Spanish colonial powers, along with urban nationalists, defined Moroccan identity during the colonial period (1912-1956). Wson delves into the perspectives of various groups, including Berbers, Jews, and women, using unique sources like oral poetry to reveal their roles in shaping the nation's identity. The book uncovers the complex interplay between state and nation-building, with insights into the lasting impact of colonialism on Moroccan society.

Takeaways

• 😀 The book focuses on how Moroccan national identity was defined during the colonial period (1912-1956) by examining the processes of state formation and nation building.
• 😀 The central theme of the book is exploring how Moroccan identity evolved, with a strong emphasis on the Arab and Muslim identity at the time of independence in 1956.
• 😀 The author was inspired to write the book after observing the motto 'God, Nation, King' painted on rocks throughout Morocco, which embodies the official national identity.
• 😀 The methodology involved examining colonial archives and non-traditional sources, including poetry, to uncover voices from tribal groups, women, and other marginalized populations.
• 😀 The book challenges traditional narratives and highlights the importance of non-elite groups like Berbers, Jews, and women in shaping Moroccan identity during the colonial period.
• 😀 Berbers, who lived in remote areas, resisted colonial forces for decades, and their incorporation into the colonial army played a critical role in defining the nation.
• 😀 The French colonial administration used ethnicity, religion, and gender to divide Moroccan society, creating distinct divisions between Arabs and Berbers, Jews and Muslims, and men and women.
• 😀 Oral poetry was a unique way to capture the perspectives of Berber populations, who did not have written records, providing insight into their experiences during the French conquest.
• 😀 The book concludes that the process of state and nation formation is dynamic and influenced by complex interactions between colonial powers, nationalist movements, and local populations.
• 😀 A surprising finding from the research was the deep emotional and communal response to colonialism reflected in Berber poetry, offering a unique view of the resistance and evolving Moroccan identity.

Q & A

What is the main focus of Professor Jonathan Wson's research as discussed in the interview?

Professor Wson's research focuses on how nations are formed, specifically looking at Morocco's colonial period (1912-1956) to analyze the processes of state-building and nation-building, with a focus on Moroccan national identity.

What is the significance of the phrase 'God, Nation, King' in Moroccan national identity?

The phrase 'God, Nation, King' represents the official version of Moroccan national identity. It emphasizes the importance of religion, national unity, and the monarchy, which are central to Morocco's national identity, especially following independence.

What motivated Professor Wson to write the book on Moroccan identity?

Professor Wson was inspired to write the book after observing the widespread appearance of the phrase 'God, Nation, King' painted on rocks across Morocco, which prompted him to explore how this definition of Moroccan identity came to be.

What was the methodology used by Professor Wson in researching Moroccan national identity?

Professor Wson used a variety of methodologies, including examining colonial archives, non-traditional sources like oral poetry, and exploring the roles of different groups, such as Berbers, Jews, and women, in the formation of Moroccan identity.

How did the Berbers influence Moroccan identity during the colonial period?

The Berbers, who lived in more inaccessible areas, played a key role in the resistance to French and Spanish colonial powers. Their experiences, especially as conveyed through oral poetry, provide insight into their perspective on the colonial conquest and their involvement in the formation of Moroccan identity.

Why is the role of women in Moroccan identity formation often overlooked?

The role of women in Moroccan identity formation is often overlooked because traditional historical narratives have focused more on elite groups. However, Professor Wson's research highlights the importance of women's roles, particularly through their involvement in education and society during the colonial period.

What role did Jewish populations play in the shaping of Moroccan identity?

The Jewish minority in Morocco played a significant role in the country's social and political landscape. The French and nationalist movements used religion to create divisions, but the Jewish community contributed to Moroccan identity, though their perspective is often marginalized in historical accounts.

What was the relationship between the French colonial administration and the Berber populations?

The French colonial administration struggled to pacify the Berber populations, who were the most resistant to colonial rule. The Berbers were eventually incorporated into the colonial army, and their resistance and subsequent integration into the system were critical to understanding Moroccan state and nation-building.

What conclusions does Professor Wson draw from his research on Moroccan identity?

Professor Wson concludes that the process of identity formation is complex and interactive. The political context of colonialism, along with contributions from various groups (including urban nationalists, the monarchy, Berbers, Jews, and women), shaped Moroccan identity. This process of nation-building is ongoing and not fixed at any given point.

What surprising findings did Professor Wson uncover in his research?

One of the most surprising findings was the significant role of Berber oral poetry in documenting resistance and perspectives on the colonial conquest. These poems, transcribed by a French officer, offer a unique and intimate insight into how Berber communities experienced colonialism and their role in Moroccan identity formation.