The Historical Context of Ceuta and Melilla: Debunking Morocco’s Claims

The historical background of Ceuta and Melilla, two cities on the northern coast of Africa, is often muddled by political rhetoric and misinformation. This article aims to clarify the historical context, debunk common misconceptions, and address the claims made by the Moroccan government regarding these territories.

The Myth of Franco’s Return

Franco, the former dictator of Spain, did not return Ceuta or Melilla to Morocco, as Morocco’s government often suggests. The cities have historical, legal, and constitutional ties to Spain that predate the existence of the Moroccan state and any possible influence of Franco.

Ceuta: A Portuguese and Later Spanish Territory

Ceuta was originally conquered by Portuguese forces in 1415, during the reign of King John I. This conquest was part of Portugal’s efforts to expand its territories and claim control over strategic points. However, after the death of Portuguese King Sebastian in 1578, the throne passed to King Philip II of Spain, who unified Portugal and Spain under the Iberian Union. Despite Portugal regaining its independence in 1640, Ceuta remained under Spanish control. This period of rule by Spain has been continuous and uninterrupted from the 16th century to the present, with the cities never being under Moroccan sovereignty.

Melilla: A Spanish City Since 1497

Melilla has similarly been a Spanish city since 1497, when it was conquered by Spanish forces. This conquest occurred shortly after the fall of the last Muslim kingdom in Granada, marking the end of the Reconquista, a series of campaigns by Christian forces to retake control of Spain from Islamic rule. The city has been Spanish ever since, with no significant period of Moroccan or other foreign rule.

Rectifying Historical Misunderstandings

Morocco’s current claims over Ceuta and Melilla are based on the assertion that these territories once belonged to Morocco, a notion that requires careful examination. During the Roman era, the region was part of Hispania. Later, it became part of the Visigothic kingdom, which ruled over much of the Iberian Peninsula, including what is now Spain. When the Arabs conquered the Iberian Peninsula, they called it Al-Andalus, but this did not include Ceuta and Melilla.

The Relevance of History

The history of these territories is crucial for understanding the legal and constitutional status of Ceuta and Melilla today. Since the 16th century, these cities have been Spanish. They were not part of Morocco or any other foreign power during this period. In the context of sovereignty and territorial integrity, this historical context is clear and undisputed.

Realconsequences of Moroccan Claims

Morocco’s claims over Ceuta and Melilla are not only historically unfounded but also detrimental to the well-being and security of the inhabitants of these cities. The people of Ceuta and Melilla have consistently expressed their preference for Spanish citizenship and governance, rejecting the overtures of the Moroccan government to annex these territories.

What People in Ceuta and Melilla Say

Residents of Ceuta and Melilla have shown a strong preference for their current status as Spanish citizens. Their attachment to Spain is deeply rooted, and they have experienced the consequences of being under foreign rule, such as the loss of Ifni and Spanish Sahara, which were former Spanish territories that fell under Moroccan control. These experiences have reinforced their desire to remain under Spanish administration.

Conclusion

Morocco’s claims over Ceuta and Melilla are not credible based on historical evidence. These cities have been Spanish for centuries and have never been part of Morocco. The people of Ceuta and Melilla have made it clear that they prefer the status quo, rejecting any attempts to change their current situation. Any discussion of these territories should be framed within the context of their historical and legal realities, rather than political rhetoric.