The flag of Morocco has quite a significant history. The latter also marks the independence of November 17, 1915. Several changes have defined the temporal evolution of the flag of Morocco from the 8th century until today.
Origin of the flag of Morocco
Evolution of the Moroccan flag from the 8th century until 1350
Before the 8th century, the people living in Morocco had no flag. It was with the Muslim conquest and its reign that the first came into existence. On the other hand, this flag was a simple white banner used on the battlefields. Sometimes the fabric was adorned with Islamic inscriptions to motivate the troops or represent a slogan.
Then, the Almoravid Amazighs established the political and military use of a flag in 1062. This is how the troops kept the white banner, the emblem of the Almoravids, on the battlefields. At the same time, the platoon leaders were provided with a standard adorned with the inscription: “There is no God, but God himself, and Mohamed is his prophet.” At the beginning of the year 1062, the first leader, Youssef Ibn Tachfin, founded Marrakech.
From 1121 to 1269, it was the reign of the Almohads. During the latter, the Moroccan flag had a red background representing the blood shed for religion. It was placed in the center of a white and black chessboard, symbolizing Islam’s victory. However, the Almohad dynasty lasted only a short time, as they were overthrown in 1245 by the Merinids.
Following this reign, the Wattassides and the Saadians dominated Moroccan lands for several years. These three empires kept the same meridian flag. The latter had a red background with a star formed by two superimposed squares in the flag’s center. A golden frame ran around the edges of the flag.
Evolution of the Flag of Morocco from 1350 to 1915
This period was marked by two distinct Moroccan flags. Indeed, from 1350 to 1895, it was composed of a red background with a border of red and white triangles. In the center, two white swords were crossing each other.
It felt like scissors for a long time. However, both swords were Yatagans, a mark of the Alaouite dynasty. It is the latter that made Morocco popular through numerous trade exchanges.
From 1895 to 1905, Morocco found itself in full societal change. This period marked a reconversion of the Moroccan flag. This will cause all patterns to be removed to make way for an all-red flag.
Over time, it was found that the all-red model was quite similar to those of sailors. Thus, in 1915 on the occasion of the independence of Morocco, a new model was created and kept until today.
The current flag of Morocco
Morocco’s flag, born on November 17, 1915, has a beautiful meaning.
Description of the flag
A green star has been added to the red background since 1895. The latter resembles the seal of the “Seal of Solomon.”
Indeed, it represents courage, health, and prosperity in Morocco. Being an Arab state, the choice of the star by Moulay Youssouf aims to remind Moroccans of the five pillars of Islam. These include the profession of faith, prayer, almsgiving, Ramadan, and pilgrimage. This is how Morocco becomes the first and only country to recall the five pillars of Islam through its flag.
In addition, the latter can be used as a wall decoration on a facade or for an interior layout. Thus, it is possible to embellish schools, town halls, communities, businesses, etc. For example, in some government institutions, the flag has the inscription “Allah, El Watan, El Malik.”
This set of characters translates to “God, Fatherland, King.” Even the coat of arms of Morocco symbolizes an Islamic phrase. The country’s flag is stapled to a blue-sheathed wooden pole with hemmed edges to hoist it.
Meaning of the current flag of Morocco
Red and green have long been colors symbolizing the flags of Arab countries. Morocco is similar. Indeed, the red background of the Moroccan flag symbolizes strength, bravery, valor, and hardiness. It retains a very high value from the Alaouite dynasty.
In addition, the color green symbolizes hope, peace, love, wisdom, and joy. On the other hand, the Moroccan flag has additional characteristics. These relate to the manufacture, the size, and possible use.
Additional Features of the Flag of Morocco
The size of the Moroccan flag varies according to its use and the place where it will be hoisted. In general, you have 7 standard sizes, namely:
• 40 x 60 cm with a height of 125 cm for a pole of 16 mm
• 50 x 75 cm with a height of 125 cm for a pole of 16 mm
• 60 x 90 cm with a height of 150 cm for a pole of 16 mm
• 80 x 120 cm with a height of 170 cm for a pole of 18 mm
• 100 x 150 cm with a height of 200 cm for a pole of 20 mm and
• 120 x 180 cm with a height of 200 cm for a pole of 20 mm.
The flag can also be made with much larger dimensions. You have 150 x 225 cm with a height of 300 cm for a shaft of 25 mm. In addition, the flag of Morocco is offered in two different materials.
First, there is Ecofix which is a 110 gr/m² polyester fabric. This standard-quality material has an average life span of 3 to 6 months. Then there is the Polyspun Marine. The latter is a 150 gr/m² polyester fabric.
This second material for making the Moroccan flag is the best and most recommended. It gives it an average lifespan of 6 to 12 months.
In addition, the Moroccan flag is made with a double-stitched hem around the edge. This aspect gives it more solidity. It is stapled to a wooden pole with a golden tip in some configurations.
Apart from all the history, meaning, and additional characteristics of the Moroccan flag, the latter has some very interesting facts and anecdotes.