"The Liberation of Algeria: Resilience of a People and Enduring Patience on the Path to Independence"
By Dr. Ali Muhammad Al-Sallabi, Secretary-General of the International Union of Muslim Scholars
The Algerian people's resistance against French colonialism began with the arrival of French forces on the shores of Algeria, specifically in Sidi Fredj, on June 14, 1830. This marked the beginning of a long and arduous struggle, as the Algerian people endured a legacy of resistance, passed down through generations, against the occupiers who had invaded their land. This collective struggle embodied the Algerian people's enduring commitment to liberation.
France sought to entrench its control over Algeria through oppressive colonial policies, seizing lands and resources, expropriating citizens’ properties, and exploiting Algerians as servants for the occupiers. The resulting chaos, widespread destruction, and intense violence did not quell Algerian resistance, despite France's brutal attempts to suppress uprisings. The Algerians began their armed struggle against the colonizers just one year after occupation, with the uprising of Sidi Saadi in 1831, followed by numerous revolts, including those led by Ibn Abi Mezrag and Ibn Zammum. The uprising led by Emir Abdelkader lasted for years, inflicting severe losses on the French forces before his exile in 1847, which marked a turning point in the struggle, transitioning from local resistance to a unified national movement.
Revolts continued even after Abdelkader’s exile, with notable uprisings including the Zaatcha, Bou Baghla, the efforts of the tribes of Namamsha and the Sbayah, and other movements led by Bouziane, Bu Sabaieh, and Bou Choucha. These continued into the 20th century, when Algerian leaders united nationally, demanding the revocation of oppressive colonial laws and equality in taxation and political representation in the local councils and the French parliament.
With the onset of World War I, Algeria entered a new phase, seeing the emergence of political movements and parties. Under the leadership of Sheikh Abdelhamid Ben Badis, the Association of Algerian Muslim Scholars was formed, guiding a reformist movement amidst the extreme challenges of French colonial rule. These efforts, along with sacrifices of life, resources, and time, paved the way for the massive revolution that ultimately expelled the French from Algeria, led by the Algerian National Liberation Front (FLN).
The Algerian people resisted the French’s policies of "Francization," which sought to erode Islamic identity, yet ultimately failed. An Algerian Muslim wrote to the governor, stating, "We would rather die with our children than become French." Amid increasing resistance, the French occupation restricted Algerians, leaving them with two choices: exile or confinement in jails.
On May 8, 1945, a pivotal event unfolded as the French colonial powers brutally suppressed peaceful demonstrations, killing 45,000 Algerians in what became known as the "Bloody Week." This event crystallized the Algerian people's conviction that peaceful efforts for their rights were futile and that only armed resistance would achieve independence. This led to the 1954 Algerian War of Independence, launched by the FLN, which endured seven years of struggle marked by severe French reprisals and harsh policies aimed at breaking Algerian resolve.
Following significant economic and military losses, France entered negotiations with the provisional Algerian government under General Charles de Gaulle. The arduous talks culminated in the Évian Accords, affirming Algeria’s right to self-determination. A referendum on independence took place, and on July 3, 1962, Algeria declared independence, celebrated annually on July 5.
This victory was due to, above all, divine support, the principles of Islam that provided spiritual strength, and the sacrifices of over one million Algerian martyrs during the independence struggle, and more than five million throughout the colonial period.
May Allah have mercy on the martyrs of Algeria and those who supported them in their quest for liberation. May He also grant victory to all Muslims striving for freedom, dignity, and independence, particularly our brothers and sisters in beloved Palestine.
For more details, see:
- Ali Muhammad Al-Sallabi, "The Struggle of the Algerian People Against French Occupation," Volume 3, First Edition, Ibn Kathir Publishing House, Damascus, 2017. The encyclopedia can be downloaded from the official website.
📙 Volume 1: The Biography of Emir Abdelkader http://www.alsalabi.com/salabibooksOnePage/21
📙 Volume 2: The Biography of Leader Abdelhamid Ben Badis http://www.alsalabi.com/salabibooksOnePage/22
📙 Volume 3: From World War II to Independence and the Biography of Imam
Muhammad Al-Bashir Al-Ibrahimi http://www.alsalabi.com/salabibooksOnePage/23
You can download the books from the official Telegram channel. https://t.me/alsallabi
Note: All published articles reflect the views of their authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the International Union of Muslim Scholars.