The Battle of Algiers

The Battle of Algiers unfolded over nine months in 1957 and was a particularly painful and brutal period in the Algerian War, which saw the citizens of this French colony fight for their independence. The French authorities responded to a campaign of guerrilla warfare by the National Liberation Front (FLN) with forced disappearances, torture and summary executions, which tarnished their reputation later on. In just 50 minutes, you will learn about the events leading up to the Battle of Algiers and gain an understanding of this significant event in 20^th century history.

This straightforward and informative book provides a thorough discussion of the methods and strategies of both the French and Algerian forces and an evaluation of their effects. It also features biographies of key commanders and leaders, including Jacques Massu and Mohamed Larbi Ben M’hidi, a valuable introduction to the phenomenon of decolonization and an evaluation of the outcome of the battle, giving you all the essential information about this brutal period of repression.

About the Battle of Algiers

In the summer of 1956, the Algerian capital was shaken by a series of attacks by the FLN as they struggled to throw off the yoke of French rule and sought independence for the North African nation. The French decided to fight back and dealt brutally with the urban guerrillas, resorting to torture, imprisonment and execution. Although the Battle of Algiers ended in victory for the French, the country’s prestige was damaged when the abuses of its forces came to light.

This clear and accessible 50-page book is structured as follows:

• Introduction to the Battle of Algiers
• Political and social context
  • The decolonization phenomenon
  • The colonial system in Algeria
  • The National Liberation Front
  • The start of the war in Algeria
  • The threat to Algiers
• Commanders and leaders
  • Jacques Massu, French General
  • Roger Trinquier, French superior paratrooper officer
  • Mohamed Larbi Ben M’hidi, responsible for armed actions in Algiers
  • Yacef Saâdi, head of the autonomous zone of Algiers
• Analysis of the battle
  • Methods of combat
  • The start of hostilities
  • Interrogations, torture and disappearances
• Impact of the Battle of Algiers
  • The true nature of the battle
  • A heavily criticized battle
  • The Battle of Algiers: a French victory?
• Summary