Aspects of Relational History: Morocco and the Ottoman State between the 16th and 18th Century

Abstract

This article deals with the subject of diplomatic history, an old field of study that has recently witnessed considerable rebirth through the guise of “relational history”. Following a review of developments globally, the author moves to consider relational history is being felt in the Moroccan academy. To begin with, the paper focuses on relations with Europe before moving on to address relations between Morocco and the non-European world, especially sub-Saharan Africa and the Ottoman Empire. These latter relations, developed between the 16th and 18th century, form the bulk of this paper. The article concludes with a reflection on some of the major issues raised by these relations such as the legitimacy of governing and intervening in the areas of the nation and the state, the question of identity, borders, and rival sovereignties in the Islamic world.