Background:

Unlike other North African nations, Morocco has been largely occupied by one group of people for as long as recorded history can recall.  After a number of short-lived dynasties rose and fell, the Alawite family secured a stranglehold in the 1630s that remains firm to this day.  In the late 19th century, European traders fought for control of the area with France winning out.  Morocco's long struggle for independence from France ended in 1956.  Morocco has developed an elaborate patchwork of artistic traditions with music being the thread that holds it together.  Crafts are a staple of Morocco. Its leatherware has been a highly prized item among the cargo of traders since the 16th century. An equally rich heritage lives on in the production of carpets, pottery, jewelry, brassware and woodwork.

• Population: 31,167,783
• Ethnic Groups: Arab-Berber 99.1%, other 0.9%,
• Religions: Arab-Berber 99.1%, other 0.7%, Jewish 0.2%

Geography:

• Area: total: 446,550 sq km. water: 250 sq km, land: 446,300 sq km
• Borders: lgeria, Western Sahara, Spain
• Climate: Mediterranean, more extreme in the interior
• Terrain: northern coast and interior are mountainous, rich coastal plains, western desert

• Ministry of Tourism
• Morocco Today
• Travel Guide

• Industries: phosphate rock mining and processing, food processing, leather goods, textiles, construction, tourism

• Imports: semi-processed goods, machinery and equipment, food and beverages, consumer goods, fuel

• Exports: phosphates and fertilizers, food and beverages, mineral