Morocco’s national holiday on 18 November, commemorating the end of the French protectorate, is called Independence Day.
Morocco gained independence from France on 2 March 1956, while the Spanish protectorate ended later that year. The 18 November holiday is linked to the return of Sultan Mohammed V from exile in 1955 and his role in restoring Moroccan sovereignty. Mohammed V later became king when Morocco became independent.
Independence Day is distinct from Throne Day, celebrated on 30 July, which honors the accession of King Mohammed VI. Morocco also observes the Green March on 6 November, recalling the 1975 mass demonstration connected with the disputed Western Sahara. These holidays are sometimes grouped together in general discussions of Moroccan nationalism, but each marks a different event.