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Precolonial Era
Before imperialism in Africa by the Europeans, it's population was divided into hundreds of ethnic and linguistic groups, which spoke more than 1,000 different languages. Religiously they followed their traditional beliefs, yet others converted to Islam or Christianity. Africa was not powerful, Europeans nations were growing industrially and needed more resources to fuel their production. They looked at Africa as a nation that could be dominated politically, economically, and socially. -
France invades Algeria
On July 5, 1830, the French Kingdom ruled by Charles X invaded and conquered the Ottoman Regency of Algiers, who had been in control since 1529. The invasion began with a naval attack by a fleet under the control of Admiral Duperre, and a landing attacks by troops under Louis Auguste Victor de Ghaisne. The invasion lasted to July 7 and the French were able to quickly defeat the troops of Hussein Dey, who was the Ottoman ruler. -
France annexed Algeria
France annexed Algeria in 1834, and the new government caused fierce resistance from the local tribes which were used to being indirectly controlled by the Ottoman Empire. After 50 years of brutal warfare against the Muslim population, the French were able to control them. In order to encourage the Europeans to move to Algeria, the French either confiscated or purchased lands at low prices from the Muslim owners. Many of the settlers showed great racism towards the Muslims and Jews. -
France invades Tunisia
In order to protect French Algeria, France eventually invaded Tunisia. Tunisia is the nation that is located directly north-east from Algeria. Being that there was a "scramble for Africa" by European powers, the French wanted to protect their territory. On 28 April 1881, 28,000 men under General Forgemol de Bostquénard entered Tunisia. On 12 May 1881, the Bardo Treaty was signed by both parties which made French Protectorate of Tunisia. -
World War I
During World War I, Algeria was a French colony that France was trying to turn into and overseas version of itself. The French were attempting this through emigration and other policies such as education and religion. Over 150,000 Algerian soldiers fought with the French during WWI. After the war was over, a large number of Algerians received French citizenship for their service. -
Algerian War of Independence (All Saints' Day)
The rebellion in 1954 was led by the National Liberation Front (FLN). They used guerilla warfare tactics, destroying government buildings, communication centers, and military posts. The French government used 400,000 troops, with the French soldiers massacring whole villages of natives. The FLN used terrorism as a weapon against the white civilians. In 1962 the fighting finally stopped, but at a tremendous cost. -
Battle of Philippville
The FLN completely changed their war strategy and massacred 123 civilians in the town of Philippeville, including women and children. Before this event took place, the FLN had only attacked government and military targets. The French were outraged and retaliated by killing 1,273 guerillas. The Algerians claimed that 12,000 Muslims were killed, which led Philippeville into the bloody war. My grandparents from my father's side, both were involved in that battle. -
Algeria becomes Independent
Having fought Algeria for eight years and having at least 100,00 French soldiers and civilians killed, French president Charles de Gaulle began peace negotiations with Algeria. Approximately 1 million Algerian natives and guerillas died in this war, while the war uprooted 2 million Algerians from their home. On July 5, 1962, Algeria became independent. -
First Presidential Election
After gaining their independence Algeria held a presidential election for the first time. Incumbent Ahmed Ben Bella of the National Liberation Front (FLN), was elected. He was the only candidate and was re-elected with 99.6% of the vote. He received over 5 million votes, to gain this prestigious position and the country became Socialist. Socialism is an economic system in which the factors of production are owned by the public and operate for the welfare of all.
