Reflections on Fieldwork in Morocco

The Berber people are a traditionally nomadic, desert dwelling group of tribes who have inhabited North Africa since the fifth century AD. Berbers speak a distinct language with many dialects. Many modern Berbers have abandoned nomadic living and speak second and third languages, but the Berber population in Morocco retains a strong cultural unity and independence.

Settlers from the Arabic Peninsula first arrived in Morocco in the seventh century AD. The population of Moroccan Arabs expanded quickly, and their descendants occupy all walks of life in Morocco. The first Arabic settlers brought Islam to the area, converting many Berbers.

A style of walled city common in North Africa. Medinas were mostly built by Arab settlers in the early Middle Ages and retain many of their historic features. In most Moroccan cities, the medina is the heart of native Moroccan life.