Algerian War Of Independence From The French

1954-1962 

Submitted By "Sayf Maslul" 
Courtesy Of "Al-Jazeera" 

24 minutes documentary about the Algerian war. Great vintage footage and interviews of veteran French men who were drafted, of Harkis (Algerians fighting for the French) and european settlers who had to leave Algeria after it became independent again in 1962. Many Algerians in turn immigrated to France and all whop were involved one way or another in the fight bear the scars of the conflict even t More..o this day.

Until 1999 this war was unacknowledged by the French government. It was only after Jacques Chirac recognized it officially that the oppressive silence was lifted and people concerned started to talk about it.

What strikes me the most is to see old men weep. Men are supposed not to let their emotions out but how good is it for a society when mental agony remains a taboo subject? How good can such a man be to his wife and children? To society at large? What values will he transmit to the generation that is following him if essential issues of human rights expressed through war and foreign policy cannot be addressed?

This conflict bears striking similarities with the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. People, men, fight to free their country from foreign occupation. As simple as that. They are "irregulars" because they are not part of a state-ruled army but what if their leader is corrupt and a traitor, then who will fight to free their country? Are they supposed to accept the occupation? Of course not! But by joinint the resistance they become "unlawful combatants" and are not protected by the Geneva convention. The French used this reasoning, just like Busk Jr did after the invasions in Iraq and Afghanistan.

History repeats itself, nothing new under the sun.