Morocco is notable for its stable and durable monarchy, its close ties with the West, its vibrant cultural life and its centrality to regional politics. This book, by distinguished historian Susan Gilson Miller, offers a richly documented survey of modern Moroccan history. Arguing that pragmatism rather than ideology has shaped the monarchy’s response to crisis, the book begins with the French invasion of Algeria in 1830 and Morocco’s abortive efforts at reform, the duel with colonial powers and the loss of independence in 1912, the burdens and benefits of France’s forty-four year dominion and the stunning success of the nationalist movement leading to independence in 1956. In the post-independence era, the book traces the monarchy’s gradual monopolization of power and the resulting political paralysis, with a postscript bringing events up to 2012. This concise, readable book will inform and enthral students and all those searching for the background to present-day events in the region.
Editorial Reviews
Review
‘Told with wit, intimate knowledge and commendable brevity and pace.’ The Times Literary Supplement
‘Miller demonstrates a deft historical hand, breaking down a complex and multi-faceted history into nine chapters that cover 180 years of Moroccan history. … Miller makes an important contribution to the field of North Africa studies. She has written an engaging narrative that will interest both professors and undergraduates. After finishing Miller’s insightful survey, readers can only hope – much as does the author and this reviewer – that its publication will contribute to a better understanding of the blockages that have prohibited ‘contemporary historical discourse’ while also pointing to future paths of research.’ Stacy E. Holden, The International Journal of African Historical Studies
Book Description
A richly documented survey of modern Moroccan history that will enthral those searching for the background to present-day events in the region.
About the Author
Susan Gilson Miller is a Professor in the History Department at the University of California, Davis. Her research interests focus on Islamic urbanism, travel and migration, minorities in the Muslim world and the historiography of colonialism and nationalism, with a special emphasis on North Africa. Her most recent publications are The Architecture and Memory of the Minority Quarter of the Muslim Mediterranean City (2010) and Berbers and Others: Beyond Tribe and Nation in the Maghrib (2010).
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