The United States of America gained its independence in 1776 after a long war against Britain that lasted more than eight years. However, what many don't know is that Morocco was among the first countries in the world, and is often considered the very first, to recognize the independence of this new entity.
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| Which was the first Arab country to recognize the independence of the United States? |
The Beginning of the American Revolutionary War
The first armed clashes erupted on April 19, 1775, within the Massachusetts colony, specifically in cities like Lexington and Concord. As tensions escalated, the thirteen colonies officially declared their independence on July 4, 1776, marking the beginning of a new era in world history.
The war continued until 1783, when Britain signed the Treaty of Paris and officially recognized the independence of the United States.
Morocco: The First to Recognize the United States
Even before official British recognition, Morocco was a pioneer in taking this significant step. In 1777, Sultan Sidi Mohammed bin Abdullah ordered that the United States be included among the countries whose ships were permitted to enter Moroccan ports.
This decision constituted an early practical recognition of the new nation and reflected a strategic vision aimed at expanding trade and diplomatic relations.
The Open Policy under Mohammed III
During the reign of Sultan Mohammed III (1757–1790), Morocco witnessed significant transformations. He worked to:
- Encourage international trade
- Enhance Morocco's global standing
- Develop the navy
- Protect the coasts from European ambitions
He was also known for his humanitarian policies, such as combating slavery and striving to liberate slaves, in addition to his focus on strengthening the army.
Early Moroccan-American Relations
Morocco sought to establish formal relations with the United States before the Treaty of Paris. In 1784, the US Congress began allocating funds to send diplomats to Mediterranean countries, including Morocco.
In 1786, the American diplomat Thomas Barclay arrived in Marrakesh to begin negotiations with the Sultan regarding a treaty of friendship.
Signing of the Moroccan-American Treaty of Friendship
In June 1786, a treaty of friendship was signed between Morocco and the United States, with the participation of prominent diplomats such as Benjamin Franklin and John Adams.
In 1787, the U.S. Congress ratified this treaty, which is one of the oldest continuously operating diplomatic agreements in U.S. history.
The Significance of Moroccan Recognition
Morocco’s early recognition of the United States highlights several important points:
- Morocco’s leadership in international politics
- Its openness to new powers
- Its understanding of the importance of global trade relations
