Black Morocco

Black Morocco by Chouki El Hamel is a groundbreaking historical analysis that challenges established narratives about slavery, race, and Islam in North Africa, and it is now available for scholars and readers in Morocco. This comprehensive study chronicles the experiences and identity of enslaved Black people in Morocco from the sixteenth to the twentieth century. For anyone interested in Moroccan history, sociology, or African studies, this book offers a crucial perspective often overlooked in traditional curricula. Order your copy today from Mabooko and deepen your understanding of the country’s complex past.

Synopsis: A History of Slavery, Race, and Islam

In Black Morocco, author Chouki El Hamel investigates the historical reality of slavery in the region, arguing that we cannot rely solely on Islamic ideology to explain social relations. He reveals how racial slavery was practiced in Northwest Africa, distinct from the chattel slavery of the Americas but equally significant. The book focuses heavily on the “Black Army” (the ‘Abid al-Bukhari) created by Sultan Moulay Ismail, examining how enslaved Black Moroccans served as a loyal military force and eventually became a powerful political entity.

Beyond the political history, El Hamel explores the continuity of Black Moroccan identity through cultural practices, specifically the music and spirituality of the Gnawa. By drawing on a vast array of Arabic and European sources, the author paints a vivid picture of the lives, struggles, and agency of Black Moroccans, dismantling the myth that slavery in the Islamic world was purely benign or non-racial.

Why This Book is Essential Reading

This text is a vital contribution to the historiography of Morocco. It confronts the silence surrounding the history of slavery and racial prejudice in the Maghreb. Whether you are a student, a researcher, or a general reader, Black Morocco provides the context needed to understand contemporary discussions about race and identity in the region. It is a scholarly yet accessible work that invites readers to rethink historical assumptions.

Why Buy From Mabooko?

At Mabooko, we are proud to offer essential academic and historical texts to readers across Morocco. We make it easy to access important literature without the barriers of international shipping.

• Original Books: We ensure you receive authentic, high-quality editions for your library.
• Free Shipping: We deliver to all cities in Morocco at no additional cost.
• Cash on Delivery: Pay securely and conveniently when your book arrives at your doorstep.

Uncover the layers of history that have shaped the present. Add Black Morocco by Chouki El Hamel to your cart now and engage with one of the most important historical works on the Maghreb.