The Spanish military consisted of more than 40,000 soldiers, while the Moroccan troops numbered about 140,000 men.
This was to be followed within 11 weeks by the withdrawal of two-thirds of the Moroccan troops from the territory.
The first revolt was eventually put down by Moroccan troops airlifted with American assistance.
In the summer of 1977, Moroccan troops controlled again the town, this time for nearly two years.
On April 7, plans were announced to support the government of Zaire with Moroccan troops.
That day saw many killings of civilians in the streets of the city, including of women and children, especially by the Moroccan troops.
Constructed in six stages, from 1980 to 1987, five 'breaches' along the wall allow Moroccan troops the right of pursuit.
Another sticking point has been the presence of Moroccan troops, settlers and administrative staff whose numbers are in dispute but total more than 200,000.
These Moroccan troops played a significant role in the Spanish Civil War (1936-39).
He successfully defended Melilla during a 100-day siege by Moroccan troops.