Islamic Expansion and Amazigh Resistance

Who are the Moroccans?

To a large extent, the native population of Morocco are the Amazigh people, whose presence and influence date back thousands of years. Commonly known as “Berbers,” in fact their preferred term, “Amazigh,” is a more positive, inclusive name that means “the free people.” 

Speaking the Tamazight language, and pronounced similar to “A-ma-zirgh,” (with the “rgh” a soft guttural sound) Amazigh roots spread far beyond just the borders of Morocco, which as you’ll learn in today’s episode, are quite artificial. Tribes and bloodlines stretch from Egypt to modern day Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Mauritania and more. The Amazigh tussled with the pharaohs, faced the Carthaginians, mingled with the Romans, occupied Iberia (modern Spain and Portugal), and absorbed Islamic invaders to lay the foundations of their modern culture. 

In more recent times, the Amazigh and Morocco (and Africa in general) have gone through the sting of colonialism and adapting to the imposition of European culture and languages. Moroccan independence from France in 1956 marked a return to the path of freedom and self-determination that has marked the vast majority of the country’s history. 

Morocco today is a multiethnic, modern and cosmopolitan society. But it is the Amazigh people who have the deepest roots and impact. 

Meanwhile, at Destination Morocco, one of the most frequent questions from our tour guests is, “How can I learn more about the native people, and experience the Berber culture?” Many travellers have a desire to go beyond the touristy sights and attractions and have a true culturally immersive experience. 

To that end, one of the topics we’ve had on our podcast list has been to give an overview of Berber/Amazigh history, and context to their role in Moroccan society today. This episode is the first part of a new ongoing series, a mix of regular and bonus episodes that are a bit of a glimpse “behind the curtain” into the culture and identity of everyday Moroccans. 

Azdean and Sam are joined by friend of the podcast Hiba, live from her home in Marrakech, to talk about Amazigh history. In Part 1, they talk about the early development of Amazigh identity, its reaction to the various invaders and conquerors over the centuries, and how those milestones have influenced culture and identity today. 

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