Who was Mohammed ben Abdallah, and during what period did he reign as Sultan of Morocco?

Mohammed ben Abdallah, also known as Mohammed III, was the Sultan of Morocco from 1757 to 1790. He belonged to the 'Alawi dynasty and briefly held the title of sultan in 1748 as well. His reign is often considered a significant period in Moroccan history.

What significant historical event prompted Mohammed ben Abdallah to rebuild several Moroccan cities, and which cities were notably reconstructed?

Mohammed ben Abdallah undertook the reconstruction of several cities following the devastating earthquake that struck Lisbon in 1755. Among the cities he rebuilt were Mogador (modern-day Essaouira), Casablanca, and Rabat. This rebuilding effort was crucial for restoring infrastructure and economic activity.

How did Abdallah Laroui characterize Mohammed ben Abdallah's role in Moroccan history?

Abdallah Laroui described Mohammed ben Abdallah as "the architect of modern Morocco." This designation highlights the sultan's significant contributions to the country's development, infrastructure, and political structure during his reign.

What notable military victories did Mohammed ben Abdallah achieve against European powers?

Mohammed ben Abdallah achieved significant military successes against European powers. He defeated the French in the Larache expedition in 1765 and successfully expelled the Portuguese from Mazagan (which was subsequently renamed al-Jadida) in 1769. These victories demonstrated Moroccan strength and resilience.

In what significant way did Mohammed ben Abdallah's foreign policy distinguish Morocco on the international stage, particularly concerning the United States?

Mohammed ben Abdallah was the first leader to recognize the independence of the United States of America, doing so on December 20, 1777. This made Morocco the first nation to acknowledge the newly formed United States, establishing an early diplomatic relationship.

What was the significance of the Moroccan-American Treaty of Friendship, also known as the Treaty of Marrakesh?

The Moroccan-American Treaty of Friendship, signed on June 28, 1786, was historically significant as the first treaty concluded between the United States and any Muslim, Arab, or African country. It has endured for over two centuries, representing the longest unbroken treaty relationship in United States history.

What actions did Mohammed ben Abdallah take early in his reign to restore stability and central authority in Morocco?

Upon his accession, Mohammed III focused on restoring peace and stability. He reinstated the importance of the Arab guich forces, which had been diminished, and pacified the mountain Berbers who had caused unrest. He also reduced the influence of the 'Abid military corps, whose power had declined.

How did Mohammed ben Abdallah handle the revolt of the Wadaya in 1760?

In 1760, Mohammed ben Abdallah marched an army to Fes to quell a revolt by the Wadaya, who had previously supported his father. He successfully defeated their contingents, arrested their leaders, and subsequently dispersed the Wadaya by garrisoning them in Meknes.

What challenges did Mohammed ben Abdallah face between 1776 and 1782, and how did he address them?

Between 1776 and 1782, Morocco experienced severe drought, famine, and an outbreak of plague. To mitigate the suffering, Mohammed ben Abdallah imported wheat, reduced taxes, and distributed food and funds to the populace and tribal leaders. The improved authority of the central government enabled him to manage these crises.

Describe the events of the Larache expedition in 1765 involving Moroccan forces and the French fleet.

In June 1765, a French fleet attacked Larache. After initial delays due to weather, the French bombarded Moroccan defenses. However, Moroccan vessels counter-attacked, encircling the French fleet and inflicting significant losses, thereby defeating the French expedition. Moroccan casualties were minimal (30 men), while French losses were substantial (200 killed, 49 captured, 300 lost).

What led to the Portuguese evacuation of Mazagan, and what happened to the city afterward?

In 1769, facing the threat of invasion by Sidi Mohammed, the Portuguese governor of Mazagan received orders from Lisbon to evacuate the city. Following the evacuation, the city was renamed al-Jadida, meaning "the new." It was later restored by Sultan Abd al-Rahman.

What was the nature of the Dutch-Moroccan War (1775-1777) during Mohammed ben Abdallah's reign?

Mohammed ben Abdallah declared war on the Dutch Republic, leading to the Dutch-Moroccan War from 1775 to 1777. Despite initial actions, the war concluded unfavorably for Morocco due to a Dutch naval blockade and the loss of two key ships. The conflict ended with a treaty negotiated by Captain Jan Hendrik van Kinsbergen.

What role did the 'Black Guard' play during Mohammed ben Abdallah's reign, and how did he attempt to manage their influence?

The 'Black Guard' was a military corps whose power Mohammed ben Abdallah sought to diminish. In 1775, he ordered their transfer from Meknes to Tangier, but they resisted and attempted to install his son Yazid as sultan. Although Yazid reconciled with his father, the Black Guard remained a source of trouble until 1782 after being dispersed to various garrisons.

What was the outcome of the siege of Melilla initiated by Mohammed ben Abdallah in 1774?

In 1774, Mohammed ben Abdallah besieged Melilla with a large army. Spanish reinforcements and artillery bolstered the city's defenses. Despite a prolonged bombardment, Spanish troops successfully resisted the attack. The siege concluded with the Treaty of Aranjuez in 1780, where Morocco recognized Spanish rule over Melilla in exchange for ceded territories.

Why did Mohammed ben Abdallah order the seizure of the American merchant ship Betsey in 1784?

Mohammed ben Abdallah ordered the seizure of the American ship Betsey in October 1784 because the United States government had been delaying negotiations for a treaty. He held the ship and its crew hostage in Tangier, announcing they would be released only upon the conclusion of a formal treaty, which spurred the Americans to action.

What was the significance of Mohammed ben Abdallah's relationship with the ulama?

Mohammed ben Abdallah maintained a productive relationship with the ulama, who were Muslim religious scholars. Their support was valuable for some of his reform initiatives and helped legitimize his rule, contributing to the stability of his reign.

Who were Mohammed ben Abdallah's primary wedded wives mentioned in the text?

The text identifies two primary wedded wives of Mohammed ben Abdallah: Princess Lalla Fatima bint Suleiman, who was his chief wife and held in high esteem, and Lalla Dawiya, originally named Marthe Franceschini, who was a former slave concubine whom he married. Several other wives are mentioned, identified by their tribal affiliations.

Which of Mohammed ben Abdallah's sons succeeded him as Sultan of Morocco?

Mohammed ben Abdallah was succeeded by his son Yazid. Yazid's reign was short, and he was subsequently succeeded by his brother, Sulayman.

What role did Luis de Unzaga play in relation to Mohammed ben Abdallah?

Luis de Unzaga, known as "le Conciliateur" or "The Conciliator," established an alliance with Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah. Unzaga's brothers-in-law, Antonio and Matías de Gálvez, were involved in the sultan's secret intelligence service.

What was the estimated population of Essaouira when it was developed by Mohammed ben Abdallah?

When Essaouira (al-Sawira) was developed by Sidi Mohammed starting in 1769, its estimated population was about 12,000 people. The city was established as the principal port for external trade.

What architectural contributions were made in Rabat during Mohammed ben Abdallah's reign?

During Mohammed ben Abdallah's reign, Rabat was developed into an imperial city. Notable constructions included the Dar al-Makhzen palace and the As-Sunna Mosque, although both structures have undergone significant alterations since their initial construction.

What is known about Lalla Dawiya (Marthe Franceschini) and her relationship with Mohammed ben Abdallah?

Lalla Dawiya, born Marthe Franceschini, was of Corsican or Genoese origin. She was initially a slave concubine in Sidi Mohammed's harem, whom he later married. Accounts suggest she was taken into his service at a young age and became his favorite wife by 1789. Their son was Moulay Ibrahim.

What happened to the sons of Helen Gloag, a Scottish captive in Mohammed ben Abdallah's harem?

According to the narrative, Helen Gloag, a Scottish captive who became a favorite concubine, had two sons with Mohammed ben Abdallah. These sons were reportedly assassinated by Moulay Yazid upon his ascension to the sultanate.

What was the fate of Elizabeth Marsh, an English captive in Mohammed ben Abdallah's harem?

Elizabeth Marsh, an English captive sold into Sidi Mohammed's harem in 1756, reportedly disliked her situation. She behaved in a way that discouraged the Sultan's interest, and he eventually granted her freedom and permission to leave Morocco.

What is the historical significance of Mohammed ben Abdallah's reign regarding Moroccan infrastructure and urban development?

Mohammed ben Abdallah's reign was marked by significant urban development and infrastructure projects. He rebuilt cities devastated by the 1755 earthquake, established Essaouira as a major port, and contributed to the development of Rabat, earning him the title "architect of modern Morocco."

What specific actions did Mohammed ben Abdallah take to strengthen central authority and limit European intervention?

To strengthen central authority and reduce European influence, Mohammed ben Abdallah developed Essaouira into the principal port for external trade. This strategic move aimed to consolidate control over commerce and manage interactions with European powers more effectively.

What were the circumstances surrounding Mohammed ben Abdallah's brief sultanate in 1748?

The provided text mentions that Mohammed ben Abdallah was briefly sultan in 1748, prior to his main reign from 1757 to 1790. However, the specific circumstances or events leading to this brief period of rule are not detailed in the text.

Who was Mohammed ben Abdallah's father, and from which tribe did his mother originate?

Mohammed ben Abdallah's father was Sultan Abdallah bin Ismail. His mother was from the Chéraga guich tribe.

What was the outcome of the conflict between Mohammed ben Abdallah and the Portuguese over Mazagan in 1769?

In 1769, Mohammed ben Abdallah threatened Mazagan with invasion. Under this pressure, the Portuguese governor evacuated the city, which was then renamed al-Jadida. This marked a successful assertion of Moroccan sovereignty over the coastal stronghold.

How did Mohammed ben Abdallah's government respond to the challenges of drought, famine, and plague between 1776 and 1782?

During the period of severe drought, famine, and plague from 1776 to 1782, Mohammed ben Abdallah implemented measures to alleviate suffering. These included importing wheat, reducing taxes, and distributing food and funds to local populations and tribal leaders. These actions helped the central government navigate the crises.

What is the significance of the 'Alawi dynasty in relation to Mohammed ben Abdallah?

Mohammed ben Abdallah was a member of the 'Alawi dynasty, which has ruled Morocco since the 17th century. His reign was part of this continuous dynastic rule, and his actions contributed to the dynasty's legacy and the shaping of modern Morocco.

What was the role of the secret intelligence service mentioned in connection with Mohammed ben Abdallah and Luis de Unzaga?

The text mentions a secret intelligence service led by Antonio and Matías de Gálvez, who were brothers-in-law of Luis de Unzaga. This service was established in conjunction with the alliance between Mohammed ben Abdallah and Luis de Unzaga, suggesting a focus on gathering information and potentially conducting covert operations.

What is the historical context of the 'Abid and the guich tribes during Mohammed ben Abdallah's early reign?

During the succession crisis following his father's reign, the 'Abid military corps had declined in power and abandoned their positions. Mohammed ben Abdallah restored the significance of the Arab guich tribes and pacified the Berbers of the mountains, thereby re-establishing a more stable military and political order.

What is the significance of the image depicting coins minted in Essaouira during Mohammed ben Abdallah's reign?

The image shows coins minted in Essaouira between 1760 and 1767 (corresponding to Hijra years 1182-1189). This visual evidence highlights Essaouira's importance as a minting center and a key city during Mohammed ben Abdallah's rule, reflecting his economic and administrative activities.

What does the image of the treaty negotiation between Captain van Kinsbergen and the Emperor of Morocco represent?

The image, described as a 19th-century illustration, depicts Captain Jan Hendrik van Kinsbergen negotiating a treaty with the Emperor of Morocco (Mohammed III). This event signifies the resolution of the Dutch-Moroccan War (1775-1777), illustrating diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.

What is the significance of the letter from George Washington to Mohammed ben Abdallah shown in the article?

The letter from George Washington to Mohammed ben Abdallah, dated 1787, expresses appreciation for the signing of the Treaty of Peace and Friendship. This artifact underscores the formal diplomatic recognition and positive relationship established between the United States and Morocco during this period.

What does the image of the Moroccan-American Treaty of Friendship signify?

The image of the Moroccan-American Treaty of Friendship, also known as the Treaty of Marrakesh signed in 1786, represents a landmark diplomatic achievement. It symbolizes the formal establishment of peaceful relations and mutual recognition between the United States and Morocco, marking a significant moment in early American foreign policy.

Who was Lalla Fatima bint Suleiman, and what was her status within Mohammed ben Abdallah's household?

Lalla Fatima bint Suleiman was a chief wedded wife of Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah and his cousin. Contemporary sources referred to her as "Mulat Ud'Dar" (The Lady of the House), indicating her high status and esteem among the people. She bore him several children, including prominent sons like Moulay Mohammed Ali and Sultan Moulay Hisham.

What role did Théodore Cornut play in the construction efforts during Mohammed ben Abdallah's reign?

Théodore Cornut, a French architect, was employed by Mohammed bin Abdallah to design and build the model city of Essaouira. This collaboration highlights the sultan's engagement with European expertise in his urban development projects.

What is the historical significance of the Treaty of Aranjuez (1780) concerning Morocco and Spain?

The Treaty of Aranjuez in 1780 formally recognized Spanish rule over Melilla. In return for this recognition, Morocco received territorial concessions from Spain, indicating a diplomatic resolution that adjusted borders and acknowledged existing control over the enclave.

What challenges did Mohammed ben Abdallah face from the Black Guard in 1775?

In 1775, the Black Guard resisted Mohammed ben Abdallah's orders to transfer them from Meknes to Tangier. They attempted to proclaim his son, Yazid, as the new sultan. However, Yazid soon reconciled with his father, thwarting the Black Guard's immediate plans.

What was the origin and fate of Marthe Franceschini, later known as Lalla Dawiya?

Marthe Franceschini, later known as Lalla Dawiya, was of Genoese or Corsican origin. Accounts suggest she was captured by Moroccans and entered Sidi Mohammed's service as a slave concubine, eventually becoming his wife. She was reportedly his favorite by 1789, and they had a son, Moulay Ibrahim.

What is the significance of Mohammed ben Abdallah's reign in the context of Moroccan foreign relations and international recognition?

Mohammed ben Abdallah's reign was pivotal for Moroccan foreign relations. He established the first treaty relationship between the United States and an Arab/African nation, recognized American independence early on, and engaged in conflicts and diplomacy with major European powers like France, Portugal, Spain, and the Dutch Republic, shaping Morocco's position in the late 18th century.

Mohammed Ben Abdallah Wiki: The Sultan's Vision: Architect of Modern Morocco

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The Sultan's Reign

Restoring Order

Upon ascending to the throne in 1757, Mohammed ben Abdallah inherited a realm marked by instability, particularly due to the influence of the Black Guard and the decline of the 'Abid military corps. He swiftly moved to restore order by re-establishing the significance of the Arab guich forces and pacifying restive Berber tribes. This consolidation of power was crucial for rebuilding the nation.

Post-Earthquake Reconstruction

The devastating Lisbon earthquake of 1755 had a profound impact on Morocco's coastal cities. Mohammed ben Abdallah spearheaded the reconstruction efforts, notably rebuilding cities like Mogador (Essaouira), Casablanca, and Rabat. His efforts in urban renewal and infrastructure development earned him the description by historian Abdallah Laroui as "the architect of modern Morocco."

Internal Stability

Mohammed faced internal challenges, including a revolt by the Wadaya in 1760, which he decisively quelled by marching on Fez and redistributing their forces. He also strategically managed the Black Guard, attempting to dilute their power by transferring them to various garrisons, thereby strengthening central authority amidst ongoing tribal dynamics.

Key Achievements

Military Victories

Sidi Mohammed demonstrated considerable military acumen. In 1765, he successfully repelled a French naval expedition at Larache, inflicting significant losses. Furthermore, he compelled the Portuguese to evacuate Mazagan (modern-day El Jadida) in 1769, marking a significant assertion of Moroccan sovereignty.

Diplomatic Recognition

A landmark achievement of his reign was Morocco's early recognition of the United States of America's independence on December 20, 1777. This diplomatic initiative laid the groundwork for the enduring Moroccan-American Treaty of Friendship, signed in 1786, making Morocco the first Arab and African nation to formally acknowledge the nascent United States.

Visionary Leadership

Beyond military and diplomatic feats, Mohammed ben Abdallah fostered intellectual pursuits and maintained a productive relationship with the ulama (religious scholars). His comprehensive approach to governance, encompassing reconstruction, military strength, and international relations, solidified his reputation as a transformative leader.

Conflicts and Treaties

Larache Expedition (1765)

A French fleet attempted an attack on Larache but was decisively defeated by Moroccan naval forces. Despite initial bombardments, Moroccan vessels managed to encircle and inflict heavy losses on the French fleet, resulting in a significant victory for Mohammed ben Abdallah's forces.

Siege of Melilla (1774-1775)

Mohammed ben Abdallah initiated a large-scale bombardment of Melilla, defended by Spanish forces. Despite initial Moroccan efforts and artillery superiority, the siege was ultimately unsuccessful due to Spanish reinforcements and strategic counter-measures. The conflict concluded with the Treaty of Aranjuez (1780), which recognized Spanish control over Melilla in exchange for territorial concessions.

Dutch-Moroccan War (1775-1777)

Morocco declared war on the Dutch Republic, but the conflict proved challenging due to a Dutch naval blockade. The loss of key ships ultimately led to a frustrating outcome for Morocco, highlighting the complexities of naval power in the era.

Diplomatic Engagements

Recognizing American Independence

In a pioneering move, Morocco officially recognized the United States on December 20, 1777. This act predated recognition by most other nations and signaled Morocco's forward-thinking foreign policy. Sultan Mohammed instructed his consul to inform European merchants of this recognition, facilitating American trade.

Treaty of Marrakesh (1786)

Following the seizure of the American ship Betsey, which spurred negotiations, the Moroccan-American Treaty of Friendship was signed. This treaty established formal diplomatic and commercial relations, marking the first such agreement between the United States and a Muslim, Arab, or African nation. It remains the longest unbroken treaty relationship in U.S. history.

Relations with Spain

The Treaty of Aranjuez in 1780 resolved territorial disputes concerning Melilla, with Spain ceding territories to Morocco in return for recognition of its control over the enclave. This demonstrated Mohammed's pragmatic approach to managing relations with European powers.

Urban Development

Essaouira: The Port City

Developed from 1769, Essaouira was conceived as a principal port for external trade, designed to strengthen central authority and manage European influence. The French architect Théodore Cornut was employed in its construction, creating a model city with an estimated population of 12,000.

Rabat's Renaissance

During Mohammed's reign, Rabat was revitalized as an imperial city. Key structures like the Dar al-Makhzen palace and the As-Sunna Mosque were built, although they have undergone alterations since their initial construction.

Casablanca's Rebirth

Following the 1755 earthquake that devastated Casablanca, Mohammed ben Abdallah oversaw its rebuilding. He renamed the city al-Dār al-Bayḍāʾ, which translates to "the white house," the precursor to its modern name.

Family and Succession

Marriages

Sidi Mohammed was polygamous. His principal wife was Princess Lalla Fatima bint Suleiman, his cousin. He also married Lalla Dawiya, formerly Marthe Franceschini, a Genoese woman who entered his harem as a child concubine. His harem also included various slave concubines, including Elizabeth Marsh and potentially Helen Gloag.

Notable Issue

Mohammed ben Abdallah fathered numerous children. Among his sons who would later ascend to the throne were Sultan Moulay Yazid and Sultan Moulay Sulayman. His lineage ensured the continuation of the Alawi dynasty's rule.

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References

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The Sultan's Vision

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

The Sultan's Reign 👑

🏛️ Restoring Order

🌍 Post-Earthquake Reconstruction

📜 Internal Stability

Key Achievements 🌟

⚔️ Military Victories

🤝 Diplomatic Recognition

💡 Visionary Leadership

Conflicts and Treaties ⚔️

🚢 Larache Expedition (1765)

🏰 Siege of Melilla (1774-1775)

🇳🇱 Dutch-Moroccan War (1775-1777)

Diplomatic Engagements 🤝

🇺🇸 Recognizing American Independence

📜 Treaty of Marrakesh (1786)

🇪🇸 Relations with Spain

Urban Development 🏗️

⚓ Essaouira: The Port City

🏛️ Rabat's Renaissance

🏠 Casablanca's Rebirth

Family and Succession 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

💍 Marriages

👑 Notable Issue

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The Sultan's Reign

Restoring Order

Post-Earthquake Reconstruction

Internal Stability

Key Achievements

Military Victories

Diplomatic Recognition

Visionary Leadership

Conflicts and Treaties

Larache Expedition (1765)

Siege of Melilla (1774-1775)

Dutch-Moroccan War (1775-1777)

Diplomatic Engagements

Recognizing American Independence

Treaty of Marrakesh (1786)

Relations with Spain

Urban Development

Essaouira: The Port City

Rabat's Renaissance

Casablanca's Rebirth

Family and Succession

Marriages

Notable Issue

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice