In 1865, Sultan Mohammed IV of Morocco gifted two lions to U.S. President Andrew Johnson, according to historical records from the U.S. Department of State and the Moroccan embassy. The lions were sent as a diplomatic gesture, reflecting the longstanding friendship between the two nations, which dates back to the 1787 Treaty of Peace and Friendship.
The lions arrived in Washington, D.C., and were initially housed at the White House grounds before being transferred to the National Zoo. The gift was well-received, though President Johnson noted the logistical challenges of caring for the animals.
This event is part of a broader history of diplomatic animal exchanges, including the famous 'Lion of Judah' gifts from Ethiopia. The Moroccan gift underscored the sultan's desire to strengthen ties with the United States during a period of global change.
