(r. 1894–1908), whom he helped install on the throne. The trans-Saharan slave trade continued throughout the 19th century, even in the face of European abolitionist pressure, but by 1900 it had been significantly reduced. Slavery was officially abolished in Morocco in 1912, after the imposition of French colonial rule. Some descendants of the 'Abid continued to serve in the government afterwards in various positions. Present day The Black Guard name was changed to Moroccan Royal Guard after Morocco regained its independence in 1956, but this unit is no longer composed of descendants of black slaves since its members are now selected from elite units within the Moroccan Army. References Further reading Wilfrid Blunt, Black Sunrise: The Life and Times of Mulai Ismail, Emperor of Morocco 1646-1727 Giles Milton, White Gold: The Extraordinary Story of Thomas Pellow and North Africa's One Million White Slaves Chouki El Hamel, Black Morocco : A History of Slavery, Race, and Islam See also Moroccan Royal Guard Military of Morocco Royal guards Private armies Military history of Morocco Military units and formations disestablished in 1956 Slave soldiers Military slavery Slavery in Morocco