Algerian Independence Timeline

  • All Saint's Day

    Marked the beginning of the Algerian war for independence, FLN launched a coordinated armed struggle against the French.
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    Phase I

  • Philippeville Massacre

    FLN incited a massacre of civilians near the town of Philippeville, 123 people were killed. French governor responded by killing 1,273 guerrillas and Algerian villagers in retaliation.
  • FLN establishes a psuedo-administration

    FLN established military and civil committees, raising taxes and served as alternative administrations to the French.
  • FLN Deceleration of retaliation

    For every FLN fighter executed, 100 Frenchmen will fall to a similar fate. Led to violent attacks against civilian targets.
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    Phase II

  • Formation of Bourgès-Maunoury government

    Coalition of leftists, a radical-socialist party formed in France during the Algerian war.
  • Allowed 10th Parachute Division full authority to restore order to the city.

    Allowed them to conduct roundups of the entire community, ordered widespread executions, capturing suspects associated with FLN and using torture tactics to get information.
  • France has committed more than 400,000 tropes to Algeria.

  • Implemented a system of quadrillage

    Divided the country into sectors and permanently placed troops in territories. Reduced FLN attacks, though implemented strict military supervision.
  • Battle of Algiers (1956-1957)

    A campaign fought during the Algerian war. The battle consisted of guerrilla warfare in an urban setting, terrorist attacks, and both sides targeted citizens.
  • Referendum to extend votes to All Muslim Algerians, desperation to avoid insurgency

    Attempts were made to avoid the insurgency. It was not nearly enough.
  • Public Algerian support shift to FLN

    Overstepping of the French led to a shift in public opinion, positive skewer towards FLN.
  • Employed mobile "hunting commandos" in U.S Helicopters

    Widespread crackdown on the FLN, engaged over 500,000 tropes. Swept FLN strongholds in the mountain regions.
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    Phase III

  • President de Gaulle's promise of Algerian autonomy

    He revised his stance on the insurgency, promising autonomy within the next four years and self-determination.
  • Barricade Week

    Right-wing settlers were furious by the firing of General Massu. They began rioting and protesting. They began to take control of government buildings and fired on french security officers.
  • OAS formed

    Organisation de l’Armée Secrète (OAS).
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    Phase IV

  • Resolution signed in Evian

    Granted full political, civil, economic and cultural rights to Algerians and granted a popular referendum to decide what regions should be designated as France or sovereign states.