Battle of Fez 1911 • Modern Era
Discovering the battle
Battle of Fez banner – Modern Era

Battle of Fez

Modern Era French victory
Historical significance:

Summary

In May 1911, General Moinier's French column entered Fez to rescue the garrison and European nationals besieged by a coalition of Berber tribes. After several days of fierce combat on the outskirts and in the streets of the city, the French regained control and dispersed the rebels. This military victory enabled definitive establishment of the French protectorate over Morocco.

Historical context

The Fez uprising was part of tribal resistance to establishment of the protectorate. Violence against Europeans precipitated military intervention. The stake was control of Morocco's spiritual and political capital.

Tactics

Column progression, use of artillery to open the route and disperse rebel groups, sustained urban combat, cavalry maneuvers to take enemy positions in reverse.

Consequences

The French victory at Fez ended organized resistance in the region and allowed installation of colonial authorities. The French protectorate over Morocco was officially proclaimed in March 1912, leading to progressive pacification of the country.

Location

Place : Fez, Morocco
Coordinates : 34.033°N, 5°W

Related battles

Battle of the Chaouia

1907

Following the capture of Casablanca, Chaouia tribes, reinforced by the Beni Meskine, launched a counteroffensive against French positions. For nearly three weeks, Drude's column waged mobile warfare and outpost warfare, repulsing several major attacks and seizing strategic points on the plain. Combat culminated in defeat of Moroccan horsemen and pacification of the region.

Victory

Battle of Abéché

1909

The Battle of Abéché marked the end of the Wadai Empire facing French colonial conquest. Captain Gentil's column, after a difficult advance from Chad, faced forces of Sultan Doud Mourra entrenched around the capital. After artillery bombardment and coordinated attacks on several axes, Wadai defenses gave way. French troops seized the town, ending the independence of the last great kingdom of the eastern Sahara.

Victory

Battle of Casablanca

1907

After the massacre of Europeans in Casablanca, France organized a punitive landing. From 5 to 7 August 1907, French troops landed under naval artillery protection and faced local militias in street combat and skirmishes on the city's outskirts. French fire superiority and troop discipline enabled securing Casablanca, which became the first base for conquest of Morocco.

Victory