Morocco, known locally as “Al Maghrib,” has been occupied by numerous groups since ancient times, including the indigenous Berbers as well as Romans, Arabs, Spanish, and French. Though Morocco gained independence in 1956, the country still carries influences from all of its previous inhabitants. Present-day Morocco is home to over 34 million people. Over half of the population is concentrated in urban areas, but 40 percent of residents rely on agriculture for their livelihood.
Despite Morocco’s ethnic diversity and varied history, almost 99 percent of citizens are Muslim, and all aspects of Moroccan culture reflect the nation’s dedication to Islam. The country’s laws are likewise based on these religious views and, while Morocco is considered a relatively progressive Islamic country, the roles of women and men can also be very traditional and conservative. Among other things, this has led to a literacy rate of only 40 percent for women nation-wide — as low as 10 percent in rural areas. Morocco also struggles with widespread unemployment that affects all socio-economic groups alike.
