Anniversary Of The Independence Manifesto

Anniversary of the Independence Manifesto is a public holiday that’s observed annually in Morocco and commemorates the day on January 11, 1944, when Moroccan nationalists released a document calling for the independence of Morocco.

This document also called for the establishment of a democratic constitutional government to secure the rights of all Moroccans. In Morocco, this day is a public holiday on which the general population has a day off, and schools, government offices, and many businesses are closed.

The History of the Anniversary of the Independence Manifesto

When Allied forces landed in Morocco on November 8, 1942, Free France ended up taking control of a colonial administration that had collaborated with Axis powers during the war. The U.S. supported the independence of Morocco following the conclusion of WWII.

The Proclamation of Independence of Morocco was drafted by Ahmed el Hamiani Khatat and Ahmed Balafrej and was amended and revised by their colleagues. On January 11, 1944, 66 Moroccans signed the public proclamation that not only put an end to colonialism but also reinstated Morocco’s independence.

Fun Facts About Morocco

Always on the lookout for some fun trivia to go along with the holidays we’ve researched, we’ve decided to find some interesting ones to go along with this holiday. Below are the ones that we found, and we hope that everyone finds them useful.

  • Morocco has a population of approximately 37 million people.
  • It covers an area of 274,461 square miles.
  • There is a blue city in Morocco called Chefchaouen.
  • Approximately 99% of Moroccans are Muslim.
  • Mint tea is the national drink of the country.
  • Morocco’s main exports include dates and olives.

Observing the Anniversary of the Independence Manifesto

This holiday is celebrated with public speeches, parades, and fireworks displays all across Morocco. Since it’s a public holiday, people also use the day to spend time with friends and family. Some of the foods that might be eaten on this day include Chicken Tagine, Moroccan Khobz, Harcha, Bessara, Lentil Soup, and, of course, preserved lemons.

Where is it celebrated?
Morocco (National holiday)
When is it?
This year (2024)
January 11 Thursday
Next year (2025)
January 11 Saturday
Last year (2023)
January 11 Wednesday