The French government established a protectorate over all of Morocco in 1912, which lasted until 1956. During that period, they greatly expanded education, communications and public welfare. France was defeated in 1940 by Hitler’s Germany, and their colonies were administered by the Vichy regime; though officially neutral, Vichy was under Germany’s strong influence. The Casablanca conference between Churchill and Roosevelt took place here in January of 1943. They planned the invasion of Sicily and southern Europe, and decided that the unconditional surrender of Germany was a basic condition of peace. When the French withdrew from Morocco in 1956, they restored full control to the monarchy, and promised strong economic and diplomatic support. Since that time the kingdom has become a strong force in arbitrating disputes for the international community. Old and new seem to live as good neighbors in Casablanca.
Because of the bombing in Marrakech we received a letter informing us that we maight not stop in Casablanca. There are 150 people scheduled to take a tour to Marrakech which would be cancelled even if we do stop. However, they have now said that we are going to dock there and have been warned to go in groups and to stay on the main streets in open areas. Originally we were going to get a car and go to Rabat, but now we have decided to stay in Casablanca and go to the Medina (Kasbah). The last time Gary & I were here we were very uncomfortable and felt threatened. A few months later 9/11 happened.
We took the shuttle to town and went to the Medina. They sell everything here, mainly caftans and artifacts of every kind. Small wood carvings, silver bracelets, shoes (tons of shoes) and scarves. We spent about 4 hours walking around then Gary & I headed back to the boat. As you can see, we are back in Africa.
“Here’s looking at you , kid.”
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