Moroccan historians celebrate Abdelahad Sebti's seminal work on oral memory and historical writing

Moroccan historians and academics are deeply engaging with the seminal work of historian Abdelahad Sebti, particularly his book "From the Year of the Elephant to the Year of the American: Oral Memory and Historical Writing." This significant reference, published by Dar منشورات المتوسط after thirty years of dedicated research, is sparking a wave of academic scrutiny, including new research papers, seminars, and two dedicated books.

Sebti's book delves into the crucial role of oral memory throughout Morocco's history, seeking to understand its mechanisms in ancient times and challenging conventional historical narratives. The research is grounded in extensive fieldwork, encompassing interviews on oral history, analysis of academic and non-academic sources, and a deep dive into historical chronicles, royal annals, biographical dictionaries, travelogues, and legal rulings. The study spans from the medieval period to the early 20th century, examining oral traditions alongside written sources.

The historical inquiry initiated by Sebti's book extends beyond Morocco, incorporating examples from the Greater Maghreb and the Mashriq Arab regions. By analyzing the naming of years – a practice employed by both the populace and royalty – the book illustrates how oral memory is not confined to popular recollections. It reveals how oral traditions can transmit echoes of state power, local histories, and the narratives of religious orders, highlighting the dynamic and sometimes competitive relationship between these various forms of memory.

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The oral memory system is still active in the present of our (Moroccan) society, not just its past.

Furthermore, Sebti's work points to the enduring influence of a tripartite system in contemporary Moroccan society, extending beyond its historical context. He notes how the fragility of the agricultural calendar continues to shape feelings of guilt and link rainfall to divine favor. The culture of veneration and emulation, he argues, still impedes the writing of biographies for influential political leaders of the recent past. Additionally, political discourse frequently invokes eschatological themes, constructing images of savior leaders, predicting the rise of caliphates, or foretelling inevitable proletarian revolutions.

In academic circles, the book has been met with significant attention. A recent compilation, "Didactic Investment Opportunities of Abdelahad Sebti's Book 'From the Year of the Elephant to the Year of the American'," coordinated by Chakir Akki and Mohamed Sahoud, features contributions from nine scholars. This collection underscores Sebti's book as the culmination of substantial effort and expertise in historical research, emphasizing its epistemological, methodological, and historiographical depth. The scholars involved recognize Sebti as a distinguished figure who has dedicated his life to advancing historical knowledge through research and teaching.

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The studied historian Sebti's work is a culmination of considerable capital of effort and expertise in the field of historical research, industry and practice.