The Fexingo History Podcast: Morocco's Moulay al-Hasan and the Makhzen Reform

In the late 19th century, Morocco faced a crisis: European powers encroached, the treasury was empty, and the Makhzen — the sultanic government — struggled to project authority beyond the cities. Sultan Moulay al-Hasan (ruled 1873–1894) undertook a bold program of reform, modernizing the army, streamlining taxation, and embarking on unprecedented royal journeys — the *harkas* — to reassert sovereignty over rebellious tribes. This episode follows al-Hasan's efforts to balance tradition and modernity: his purchase of European artillery, his creation of the *mokhaznis* (tribal auxiliaries), his diplomatic tightrope with France and Spain, and the limits of reform in a deeply conservative society. We also examine the infamous 'Moulay al-Hasan's cannon' — a massive bronze gun cast in Marrakech that symbolized the sultan's ambition — and the growing influence of European advisors who would ultimately undermine his work. A story of a ruler racing against time, set against the backdrop of the Scramble for Africa. #MoulayalHasan #Makhzen #MoroccoHistory #AlaouiteDynasty #Harka #Mokhaznis #ScrambleForAfrica #NorthAfrica #Sultan #Marrakech #Fez #EuropeanImperialism #MilitaryReform #TreatyOfMadrid #Cannon #Berber #FexingoHistory #History Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo