Moorish Science Temple of America

The Moorish Science Temple of America is an American national and religious organization founded by Noble Drew Ali (born as Timothy Drew) in the early twentieth century. He based it on the premise that African Americans are descendants of the Moabites and thus are Moorish (sometimes also spelled Muurish by adherents) by nationality, and Islamic by faith. Ali put together elements of major traditions to develop a message of personal transformation through historical education, racial pride and spiritual uplift. His doctrine was also intended to provide African Americans with a sense of identity in the world and to promote civic involvement. One primary tenet of the Moorish Science Temple is the belief that African Americans are of Moorish descent, specifically from the Moroccan Empire. According to Ali, this area included other countries that today surround Morocco. To join the movement, individuals had to proclaim their Moorish nationality. They were given nationality cards. In r...