Hassan II of Morocco

Date of Birth: July 9, 1929

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: July 23, 1999

Biography

Hassan II was born on July 9, 1929, in Rabat, Morocco, and was the eldest son of Sultan Mohammed V. He was educated in both Morocco and France, where he attended the University of Bordeaux and graduated with a law degree. He ascended to the throne on March 3, 1961, following the death of his father. Hassan II ruled Morocco for 38 years, until his own death in 1999. His reign was marked by significant political and economic changes, as well as efforts to maintain Morocco’s stability and territorial integrity. Hassan II’s early reign was characterized by efforts to consolidate power and suppress dissent. He implemented various economic and social reforms, including the promotion of modern education and the development of infrastructure. He also sought to balance traditional Moroccan values with modernization, navigating the country through the Cold War era’s complex geopolitics. Internationally, Hassan II played a pivotal role in Middle Eastern politics. He was instrumental in mediating peace talks between Israel and Arab nations, hosting several key meetings in Morocco. His diplomatic efforts earned him respect on the global stage, but his domestic policies were often criticized for human rights abuses, particularly during the “Years of Lead,” a period marked by political repression and crackdowns on opposition. Despite these challenges, Hassan II’s legacy includes the establishment of a more modern and economically developed Morocco. He passed away on July 23, 1999, and was succeeded by his son, King Mohammed VI.

5 Interesting Facts about Hassan II of Morocco

1. Hassan II was educated in both Morocco and France, obtaining a law degree from the University of Bordeaux.

2. He was known for his diplomatic efforts, particularly in the Middle East, and played a key role in mediating peace talks between Israel and Arab nations.

3. His reign saw the implementation of significant economic and social reforms, including the development of modern education and infrastructure.

4. The period known as the “Years of Lead” during his reign was marked by political repression and human rights abuses.

5. He ruled Morocco for 38 years, making him one of the longest-reigning monarchs in Moroccan history.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Hassan II of Morocco

1. “The truth is that the world is not divided into two camps: those who are right and those who are wrong. It is divided into two camps: those who are reasonable and those who are not.”

2. “Morocco is a tree whose roots lie in Africa but whose leaves breathe in Europe.”

3. “In our country, the only thing that should be feared is fear itself.”

4. “The only wealth that lasts is the wealth of the mind.”

5. “Our ambition is to make Morocco an oasis of peace, a land of dialogue and understanding.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his reign, Hassan II’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 billion, though exact figures are difficult to determine due to the nature of royal wealth.

Children

Hassan II had five children: 1. Princess Lalla Meryem (born 1962) 2. King Mohammed VI (born 1963) 3. Princess Lalla Asma (born 1965) 4. Princess Lalla Hasna (born 1967) 5. Prince Moulay Rachid (born 1970)