Morocco: The First Nation to Recognize the United States and the Birth of a Historic Friendship
The relationship between Morocco and the United States is one of the oldest and most enduring diplomatic partnerships in history. While many countries only established formal relations with the U.S. in the 19th or 20th centuries, Morocco recognized American independence as early as 1777—making it the first nation to do so. This historic act laid the foundation for a long-lasting alliance that continues to thrive today.
From the Moroccan-American Treaty of Friendship to modern-day strategic cooperation, Morocco has played a unique and important role in U.S. foreign policy. This article explores the origins of this relationship, its historical significance, and how it has evolved over time.
Morocco’s Early Recognition of U.S. Independence (1777)
During the late 18th century, the newly formed United States was struggling to assert itself on the global stage. The American Revolution (1775–1783) was still underway, and European nations were hesitant to recognize the independence of the American colonies from Great Britain. However, Morocco, under Sultan Mohammed III, took a bold and unprecedented step.
Why Did Morocco Recognize the U.S. So Early?
- Strategic Interest in Maritime Trade – Morocco was a powerful maritime nation with extensive trade networks. Sultan Mohammed III saw the new American republic as a potential trading partner.
- Protection of Moroccan Waters – The Sultan aimed to establish peaceful relations with American ships navigating the Atlantic and Mediterranean.
- Morocco’s Independent Foreign Policy – Unlike European powers, Morocco was not involved in the colonial struggle and was free to pursue diplomatic ties with the U.S.
On December 20, 1777, Sultan Mohammed III formally recognized American independence by opening Moroccan ports to U.S. ships. This made Morocco the first country in the world to acknowledge the sovereignty of the United States.
The Moroccan-American Treaty of Friendship (1786)
Following Morocco’s recognition of U.S. independence, formal diplomatic ties were established in 1786 with the signing of the Moroccan-American Treaty of Friendship. This treaty, negotiated between Sultan Mohammed III and representatives of the United States, including Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, remains the longest unbroken treaty in U.S. history.
Key Provisions of the Treaty
- Protection for U.S. Ships – Morocco agreed to safeguard American vessels from piracy in the Mediterranean and Atlantic.
- Mutual Trade Benefits – The treaty granted American merchants access to Moroccan ports and vice versa.
- Diplomatic and Legal Protections – U.S. citizens in Morocco were given the right to conduct business under Moroccan law and were protected from unjust treatment.
The Treaty’s Lasting Impact
- The agreement secured Morocco as a key ally of the United States, ensuring peaceful diplomatic relations for centuries.
- It helped establish the U.S. as a recognized international player in trade and diplomacy.
- The treaty has been renewed multiple times, reaffirming the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations.
Morocco’s Role in U.S. Diplomatic and Military History
Support During Early U.S. Conflicts
Morocco continued to offer diplomatic and naval support to the young United States, particularly in protecting American ships from piracy in the Mediterranean. During the First Barbary War (1801-1805), Morocco sided with the U.S. against pirate states, further strengthening military cooperation.
World War II and Morocco’s Strategic Role
In 1942, during World War II, Morocco played a key role as the site of Operation Torch, where U.S. and Allied forces landed to push back Axis powers in North Africa. Sultan Mohammed V cooperated with the Allies, and Morocco became a vital military base for the U.S.
The Casablanca Conference (1943)
One of the most important diplomatic meetings of World War II took place in Morocco: the Casablanca Conference in January 1943. Attended by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, and French leaders, this meeting shaped Allied strategy against Nazi Germany and reaffirmed Morocco’s global significance.
During this visit, Roosevelt met Sultan Mohammed V and praised Morocco’s rich history and strong leadership, further deepening diplomatic ties.
Modern U.S.-Morocco Relations: A Continuing Legacy
Today, U.S.-Morocco relations remain strong, rooted in historical friendship and strategic cooperation.
1. Security and Counterterrorism Cooperation
- Morocco is a major non-NATO ally of the United States.
- The two countries collaborate on counterterrorism efforts, intelligence sharing, and military training.
- Morocco participates in African Lion, the largest U.S. military exercise in Africa.
2. Economic and Trade Partnerships
- The U.S.-Morocco Free Trade Agreement (FTA), signed in 2004, has boosted economic exchanges.
- Morocco serves as a gateway to Africa for U.S. companies investing in infrastructure, energy, and technology.
3. Cultural and Educational Exchange
- Thousands of Moroccan students study in the U.S. under Fulbright scholarships and exchange programs.
- The Peace Corps has operated in Morocco for decades, fostering American-Moroccan cultural ties.
4. Diplomatic Support on Key Issues
- The U.S. recognized Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in 2020, a major diplomatic victory for Morocco.
- Morocco has played a role in Middle East peace efforts, aligning with U.S. interests.
An Enduring and Unique Partnership
The relationship between Morocco and the United States is a rare and historic alliance that has lasted for nearly 250 years. Morocco’s early recognition of U.S. independence in 1777 set the stage for a long history of cooperation in trade, security, diplomacy, and cultural exchange.
From the Moroccan-American Treaty of Friendship to modern diplomatic partnerships, Morocco remains one of America’s oldest and most reliable allies. As the global landscape evolves, the foundation of mutual respect and shared interests will continue to guide U.S.-Morocco relations into the future.
This unique friendship, born in the 18th century and still thriving today, stands as a testament to Morocco’s deep-rooted diplomacy and America’s appreciation of its first international ally. 🇲🇦🤝🇺🇸
Key Facts: Morocco – The First Nation to Recognize the United States and the Birth of a Historic Friendship 🇲🇦🇺🇸
1. Morocco Was the First Country to Recognize the United States
- On December 20, 1777, Sultan Mohammed III officially recognized the United States as an independent nation.
- This recognition made Morocco the first country in the world to acknowledge U.S. sovereignty.
- At the time, the American Revolution was still ongoing, and many European powers had not yet recognized the U.S.
2. The Moroccan-American Treaty of Friendship (1786)
- Signed in 1786 and ratified in 1787, the Moroccan-American Treaty of Friendship is the longest-standing unbroken treaty in U.S. history.
- It was negotiated between Sultan Mohammed III and U.S. representatives Thomas Jefferson and John Adams.
- The treaty ensured safe passage for American ships in Moroccan waters and established diplomatic and trade relations.
3. Morocco’s Strategic Maritime Position
- As a powerful maritime nation, Morocco controlled key trade routes in the Atlantic and Mediterranean.
- Sultan Mohammed III wanted to expand Morocco’s economic partnerships and saw the newly independent U.S. as a potential trade ally.
- Morocco’s ports were opened to American ships, allowing safe trade and reducing threats from piracy.
4. Early U.S. Diplomatic Ties with Morocco
- Morocco was one of the first countries where the U.S. established a diplomatic presence.
- The American Legation in Tangier, gifted to the U.S. in 1821, is the oldest U.S. diplomatic property in the world.
- This building now serves as a museum and cultural center, symbolizing the long-standing friendship.
5. Morocco’s Support During Early U.S. Conflicts
- During the First Barbary War (1801-1805), Morocco allied with the U.S. against North African pirate states.
- Morocco played a role in protecting American ships in the Mediterranean, reinforcing its alliance with the U.S.
6. Continued Cooperation Over the Centuries
- Morocco and the U.S. maintained close ties throughout history, including during World War II when Morocco hosted the Casablanca Conference (1943), attended by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Winston Churchill.
- Morocco became a major non-NATO ally of the U.S. and continues to be a key strategic partner in Africa.
- In modern times, Morocco and the U.S. collaborate on trade, security, counterterrorism, and cultural exchanges.
7. Recognition of Morocco’s Role by U.S. Presidents
- President Barack Obama in 2014 called Morocco “one of America’s oldest and closest allies.”
- President Donald Trump further strengthened ties by recognizing Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in 2020.
- The Moroccan-American alliance continues under different U.S. administrations, adapting to geopolitical shifts.
Conclusion
The historic friendship between Morocco and the United States began in the 18th century and remains one of the strongest and most enduring international relationships today. Rooted in early recognition, diplomacy, trade, and mutual interests, this alliance continues to evolve, shaping both nations’ foreign policies in North Africa and beyond. 🌍🇲🇦🇺🇸