Moroccan diplomats #9 : Mohammed Ben Ali Abgali, an ambassador who loves science and art

In the 1720s, Mohammed Ben Ali Abgali was sent to England as Moulay Ismail’s ambassador to the English court. Once in London, he attended arts events and visited the country’s prestigious educational institution.

The earliest direct English translation of the Quran was done to argue against Islam

British lawyer George Sale was the first man to conduct a direct English translation of the Quran. His 1733 translation contained notes and an interpretation of Muslims’ manners and laws.

Moroccan diplomats #8 : Tahar Fennish, sultan Mohammed III’s negotiator

In 1777, caid Tahar ben Abdelhak Fennish was sent by Mohammed ben Abdellah to negotiate a treaty with the French to free Moroccan captives. Years later he was asked by the Alaouite sultan to make the USA befriend the Kingdom.

Peter the Venerable, the French abbot who saw Islam as a «Christian heresy»

During the 12th century, French abbot Peter the Venerable tried to introduce Islam to Christians in Europe through a book that ridiculed the religion. In his summary book, Peter gave an erroneous image of Islam, portraying it as a heresy.

Moroccan diplomats #7 : Jawdar ben Abdellah, the Saadi dynasty’s Portuguese ambassador

Appointed by Saadi sultan Mohammed esh-Sheikh es-Seghir, Jawdar ben Abdellah was Morocco’s first full ambassador to England. He met King Charles I in 1637 to conclude an agreement in favor of the dying dynasty.

Why did Thomas Jefferson own a copy of the Quran ?

In the 1700s, American statesman Thomas Jefferson purchased a copy of the Quran. Historical records suggest that the third President of the US bought the book as a law student while others say he studied it to better understand his Muslim enemies in North Africa.

Moroccan diplomats #5 : Mohamed Zebdi, Sultan Hassan I’s ambassador to the European powers

Sent in 1876 by Sultan Hassan I to Europe, Ambassador Mohamed Zebdi met during his trip the French president, Queen Victoria, and the King of Italy.

Moroccan diplomats #4 : Abdelkader Perez, the trusted ambassador of three Alaouite Sultans

Abdelkader Perez was Morocco’s ambassador to England and the Netherlands in 1724 and 1730 respectively. Sent by three Alaouite sultans, the Admiral met King George I and George II.

Moroccan diplomats #3 : Abdallah Ben Aisha, Salé’s corsair and Moulay Ismail’s ambassador

Abdallah Ben Aisha is a powerful and rich corsair who became in the 17th century Moulay Ismail’s trusted envoy. In 1698 he was sent to Paris to meet Louis XIV and discuss a treaty with him.

Moroccan diplomats #2 : Mohamed Ben Hadou, Royal Society’s honorary member

To free Tangier, seized by King Charles II of England, Moulay Ismail sent Ambassador Mohamed Ben Hadou to London. The latter became a popular figure in England and was invited to universities and honorable institutions.