Ended the War of Tetuan, imposing heavy financial and territorial concessions on Morocco that deepened Spanish influence in North Africa.
Key Facts
- Date signed
- April 26, 1860
- War indemnity
- 20 million duros (~$4 million USD in 1861)
- Territories ceded
- Ceuta and Melilla enclaves extended; Sidi Ifni to Spain
- British loan taken
- Exceeded Morocco's national reserves
- Conflict concluded
- War of Tetuan
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
The War of Tetuan, fought between Morocco and Spain in 1859–1860, concluded with a decisive Spanish military victory. Morocco's defeat left it in a weakened position, compelled to negotiate terms heavily favorable to Spain.
On April 26, 1860, representatives of Morocco and Spain signed the Treaty of Wad Ras at a location between Tetuan and Tangier. The treaty required Morocco to pay a 20 million duros indemnity, cede expanded territory around Ceuta and Melilla, and transfer Sidi Ifni to Spanish control.
Morocco was financially devastated by the indemnity, which far exceeded its treasury reserves, forcing the Makhzen to take a massive British loan larger than its national reserves to settle its war debt to Spain. Spain consolidated territorial footholds in North Africa.
Political Outcome
Morocco conceded a large financial indemnity, expanded Spanish enclave territories, and ceded Sidi Ifni to Spain, cementing Spanish dominance in the region.
Morocco maintained sovereignty over Ceuta and Melilla border regions and Sidi Ifni
Spain extended Ceuta and Melilla territories and gained Sidi Ifni; Morocco burdened with large debt