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In 788, about a century after the Arab conquest of North Africa, successive Moorish dynasties began to rule in Morocco. In the 16th century, the Sa'adi monarchy, particularly under Ahmad AL-MANSUR (1578-1603), repelled foreign invaders and inaugurated a golden age.

In 1860, Spain occupied northern Morocco and ushered in a half century of trade rivalry among European powers that saw Morocco's sovereignty steadily erode; in 1912, the French imposed a protectorate over the country. A protracted independence struggle with France ended successfully in 1956.

The internationalized city of Tangier and most Spanish possessions were turned over to the new country that same year. Morocco virtually annexed Western Sahara during the late 1970s, but final resolution on the status of the territory remains unresolved. Gradual political reforms in the 1990s resulted in the establishment of a bicameral legislature, which first met in 1997. Improvements in human rights have occurred and there is a largely free press. Despite the continuing reforms, ultimate authority remains in the hands of the monarch.  

Morocco continues in the grip of its young King, who nonetheless, understands that education and increased economic opportunity for his people are paramount issues. Morocco also faced an increasing threat from home grown terrorists, some of whom were directly implicated in the Spanish railroad bombings several years ago. Recently, Morocco outlawed an Islamist party after the authorities linked its leader to what they called a terrorist network. The government said the network planned a spate of killings in Morocco.

The outlawed party was Al Badil al Hadari (Civilized Alternative). Its leader, Mustapha Moatassim, was among 32 people arrested and accused of planning to kill top army officers, government ministers and some Moroccan Jews, the interior minister said.