Battle of Algiers (1956–1957)
Algiers, French Algeria
What happened
Fighters of Algeria's National Liberation Front (FLN), including Larbi Ben M'hidi, Yacef Saâdi and Ali La Pointe, fought French paratroopers under General Jacques Massu in the city of Algiers. During Algeria's war for independence from France, the FLN carried out attacks, including bombings, in the city of Algiers, and called an eight-day general strike. French paratroopers surrounded the old city, the Casbah, broke the strike and arrested many people. French forces used torture during the campaign, and by autumn 1957 the FLN's network in Algiers had been broken up.
Why it matters
Result: French victory. Leaders: Abane Ramdane / Krim Belkacem against Jacques Massu / Marcel Bigeard. Why it matters: France won the battle in the city, but its brutality, especially the use of torture, drew attention and criticism around the world. It helped shape opinion as Algeria moved toward independence.
What came next
The war ended with the Évian Accords in March 1962. Algeria became independent in July 1962, and 5 July is celebrated as Algeria's Independence Day.
Did you know?
The 1966 film 'The Battle of Algiers' by Gillo Pontecorvo tells the story of these events.
Timeline
- 1954The Algerian War of Independence begins.
- 30 September 1956The Battle of Algiers begins.
- 24 September 1957The FLN network in Algiers is dismantled.
- March 1962The Évian Accords are signed.
- 5 July 1962Algeria celebrates its independence.