Famous Moroccan Emperors & Kings

Hassan II of Morocco, a member of the Alawi dynasty, served as King of Morocco from 1961 until his death in 1999. He was named crown prince in 1957 and became the first commander-in-chief of the Royal Armed Forces. His reign was marked by the Western Sahara conflict and the Sand War, as well as facing two failed coups d'état in 1971 and 1972. Hassan's conservative approach reportedly strengthened his rule, though he faced accusations of authoritarian practices and human rights abuses, leading to a truth commission investigation posthumously.

Mohammed V of Morocco was the last Sultan from 1927 to 1953, King from 1957 to 1961. He played a key role in securing Morocco's independence from French and Spanish rule. Initially cautious, he later supported Moroccan nationalism, especially during World War II. Exiled by the French in 1953, he returned in 1955 and successfully negotiated independence in 1956. His leadership and diplomatic efforts were instrumental in transitioning Morocco to a sovereign state, culminating in his reign as the first King of Morocco until his death in 1961.

Mohammed VI is the King of Morocco and a member of the 'Alawi dynasty. He has extensive business holdings across various sectors in Morocco, with his net worth estimated to be between US$2.1 billion and over US$8.2 billion. Named the richest king in Africa and the fifth wealthiest monarch globally by Forbes in 2015, Mohammed has implemented reforms upon ascending the throne, including changes to the family code to grant women more power. He faced allegations of corruption but responded with further reforms and a new constitution.

Moulay Ismail Ibn Sharif was a Sultan of Morocco from 1672 to 1727, known for his strong military leadership and diplomatic relations with foreign powers. He built a powerful army, utilizing 'Guichs' and the Black Guard, which allowed him to centralize power and expand Moroccan territory. Ismail engaged in battles against the Ottoman Regency of Algiers and European powers, successfully conquering territories and expelling Europeans from Moroccan ports. His reign saw the construction of a grand citadel and palace complex in Meknes, establishing it as the capital of his kingdom.

Yusuf ibn Tashfin was a prominent Sanhaja leader of the Almoravid Empire. He played a crucial role in establishing Marrakesh and leading Muslim forces in the Battle of Sagrajas. Yusuf came to al-Andalus from the Maghreb to aid Muslims against Alfonso VI of León, achieving victory and implementing an Islamic legal system. He assumed the title Amir al-Muslimin and acknowledged the suzerainty of the Abbasid caliph. Yusuf's professional life was marked by military leadership, strategic victories, and the promotion of Islamic governance.

Ahmad al-Mansur, also known as al-Mansur al-Dahabbi, was the Saadi Sultan of Morocco from 1578 to 1603. He was a significant figure in both Europe and Africa during the sixteenth century. With a powerful army and strategic positioning, he played a crucial role in the late Renaissance era. Al-Mansur was renowned for his profound Islamic knowledge, passion for literature, calligraphy, and mathematics, as well as his interest in mystical texts and scholarly discourse. He was a respected leader known for his intellectual pursuits and military prowess.

Hassan I of Morocco was a prominent sultan of the 'Alawi dynasty, ruling from 1873 to 1894. He implemented significant military and administrative reforms, strengthening the regime within Morocco's territory. Hassan I successfully increased the power of the makhzen and conducted a proactive military and diplomatic program on the periphery. His reign was marked by notable success in maintaining Morocco's independence and sovereignty during a period when many African nations were falling under foreign control.

Abdelaziz of Morocco was the sultan of Morocco from 9 June 1894 to 21 August 1908. He attempted to consolidate his rule by implementing new taxes on agriculture and livestock, which faced strong opposition. To finance his policies, he mortgaged customs revenues and borrowed heavily from the French, leading to widespread discontent and a revolution that resulted in his deposition in 1908 in favor of his brother Abd al-Hafid.

Moulay Abd al-Rahman bin Hisham was Sultan of Morocco from 1822 to 1859. He demonstrated competency in preserving Moroccan independence during a time of European colonization in Africa. He successfully maintained Moroccan borders, supported Emir Abd al-Qadir's resistance in Algeria against France, and engaged in conflicts with European nations, particularly France. Abd al-Rahman signed treaties to uphold his beliefs and ensure Morocco's sovereignty, showcasing his diplomatic skills and commitment to safeguarding his nation's interests amidst external pressures.

Abd al-Hafid of Morocco was the Sultan of Morocco from 1908 to 1912. Initially in opposition to his brother's concessions to foreign powers, he eventually gained French support and signed a protectorate treaty with France, granting them de facto control of the country. His professional life was marked by political maneuvering and shifting alliances, ultimately leading to the relinquishment of Moroccan sovereignty to French influence during his reign.

Moulay Al-Rashid ibn Sharif, Sultan of Morocco from 1666 to 1672, was a skilled ruler who expanded his empire through strategic conquests. He succeeded his brother Sidi Mohammed and unified various regions under 'Alawi rule, including Tafilalt, the Draa River valley, Oujda, and the Eastern Sahara. He further extended his influence by capturing Taza, Sijilmasa, Marrakesh, the Sous, and the Anti-Atlas, consolidating his power and establishing himself as the first 'Alawi sultan of Morocco.

Abu Al-Hasan 'Ali ibn 'Othman was a sultan of the Marinid dynasty who ruled in Morocco from 1331 to 1348. He successfully captured Gibraltar from the Castilians in 1333 but faced setbacks in his attempt to take Tarifa in 1339. He expanded his rule over Tlemcen and Hafsid Ifriqiya, strengthening his influence in North Africa. Despite his initial successes, a revolt of Arab tribes led to his retreat, and he later died in exile in the High Atlas mountains.