The Zaian War was fought between France and the Zaian confederation of Berbertribes in Morocco between 1914 and 1921. Morocco had become a French protectorate in 1912, and Resident-General Hubert Lyautey (pictured) sought to extend French influence through the Middle Atlas mountains towards French Algeria. The war began well for the French, but they incurred heavy losses, including over 600 troops killed at the Battle of El Herri. The French retained most of their territory during the First World War, despite the withdrawal of some troops for service at home and continuing raids by the Zaians, who were supported by the Central Powers.
After the signing of the Armistice with Germany in November 1918, significant forces of tribesmen remained opposed to French rule. The French resumed their offensive in theKhénifra area in 1920, and entered negotiations with the Zaians. A split between those who supported submission and those still opposed led to infighting, and the French responded with a strong, three-pronged attack into the Middle Atlas that pacified the area. Some tribesmen fled to the High Atlas and continued a guerrilla war against the French well into the 1930s. (Full article…)
Recently featured: Tom Pryce — Frederick Delius — Thopha saccata
