les victoires militaires et diplomatiques de la Révolution de libération au centre d’une conférence à Alger
Conference Highlights on the 63rd Anniversary of the Victory of the Algerian Revolution
A conference held on Wednesday in Algiers commemorated the 63rd anniversary of the Victory Day (March 19, 1962) of the Algerian Liberation Revolution, focusing on the military and diplomatic victories achieved during this pivotal period. Organized at the Forum d’El Moudjahid, it featured prominent historians and scholars discussing the milestones of the revolutionary movement, including significant events and strategies from November 1, 1954, onwards.
Keynote Address by Historian Meziane Saidi
Meziane Saidi, a scholar specializing in the history of the national movement, emphasized the critical phases of the revolution, highlighting the intense hardships endured between 1954 and 1956. He explained that this period represented the most demanding time in the struggle against French occupation. The revolutionary leadership needed to convince the Algerian populace that their actions were part of a legitimate liberation movement, rather than a mere guerrilla campaign, as characterized by colonial authorities.
Saidi pointed to the Northern Constantinois offensive in 1955 and the pivotal Soummam Congress in 1956, describing them as transformative moments that enabled the revolution to adopt a more structured approach. As a result, the movement expanded into urban areas, facilitating greater mobilization among Algerians and garnering international support. He stated, "The rigorous organization of the Algerian Revolution led to the fall of the Fourth French Republic."
Resilience Against the Fifth French Republic
The speaker noted that even with Charles de Gaulle’s ascent to the Fifth Republic, the French government struggled to diminish the revolutionary momentum. Despite de Gaulle’s military and political sophistication, the national liberation struggle continued to gain strength. Saidi underscored that military victories achieved by the National Liberation Army (ALN) forced France to eventually engage in negotiations with Algerian leaders.
Diplomatic Achievements Highlighted by Professor Mohamed Lahcen Zeghidi
Professor Mohamed Lahcen Zeghidi also addressed the conference, focusing on the diplomatic successes of the Algerian Revolution. He articulated how these diplomatic efforts were crucial in rallying international support and raising awareness about the Algerian cause, even among segments of the French public. Zeghidi pointed out that over 200 French figures recognized the legitimacy of the Algerian endeavor and pledged their support.
The professor highlighted that the Algerian Revolution was unique in its capability to bring the fight directly to enemy territory, demonstrating unprecedented resolve and strategy. He credited these efforts as instrumental in reaching the Évian Accords, which concluded more than a century of colonization, while adhering to the foundational principles advocated by the leaders of the national movement—namely the unity of territory and people, and the pursuit of full independence.
Conclusion
The conference not only revisited key military and diplomatic achievements of the Algerian Revolution but also reinforced the narrative of resilience and determination that characterized the struggle against French colonization. By reflecting on these significant historical events, the speakers highlighted how a comprehensive strategy combining military action and diplomatic engagement eventually led to Algeria’s freedom. The discussions during this 63rd anniversary serve as an important reminder of the sacrifices made and the lessons learned from this significant chapter in Algeria’s history, contributing to the ongoing discourse on revolutionary movements and their impact on national identity and sovereignty.
This conference thus stands as a testimony to Algeria’s historical fight for independence while inspiring ongoing discussions about liberation and self-determination in a modern context.
