Pig Husbandry in Morocco in the Nineteenth Century: A Study in the History of Taboos

الملخص

This paper sheds light on the illicit practice of pig husbandry in nineteenth century Morocco. It examines how European influence p romoted the spread of this practice and how it transformed it from a prohibited foodstuff to an economic, revenue-generating activity. The paper also explores the various problems pig farming caused in the social fabric of Morocco, and how it damaged Moroccan property and economic interests, due to the Makhzen's inability to resist the pressure exerted by Europeans. The paper further illustrates the status of the pig in the Moroccan psyche and collective imaginary, with reference to historic testimonies that illustrate Moroccans' relationship to this animal.