Meriem Vergès

6. Djamila Bouhired – A prominent Algerian woman who became internationally known for her participation in the independence struggle. Women also played important roles as fighters, couriers, nurses, intelligence operatives and organizers. ALGERIA FINALLY WON ITS INDEPENDENCE After eight years of devastating conflict, France and the Algerian independence movement reached an agreement. On March 18, 1962, the Evian Accords were signed, establishing a ceasefire that took effect the following day. On July 1, 1962, Algerians voted overwhelmingly in favour of independence in a referendum. On July 5, 1962, Algeria officially proclaimed its independence from France. More than a century of French colonial rule had finally come to an end. However, independence came at an enormous human cost. The war left deep scars, displaced communities and transformed both Algeria and France. WHY NOVEMBER 1 STILL MATTERS Today, November 1 is commemorated in Algeria as the anniversary of the outbreak of the Revolution. It represents the beginning of the armed struggle that eventually secured Algerian independence. The Algerian Revolution also became an important symbol of African liberation, inspiring other movements fighting against colonial domination across the continent. Algeria's story reminds us that independence was not simply handed to African or Arabs. In many cases, it was achieved through decades of resistance, sacrifice and struggle. A QUESTION FOR HISTORY LOVERS: After 132 years of French colonial rule and eight years of devastating war, Algeria finally became independent in 1962. But here is the question: WAS ALGERIA RIGHT TO TAKE UP ARMS AGAINST FRENCH COLONIAL RULE, OR COULD INDEPENDENCE HAVE BEEN ACHIEVED THROUGH PEACEFUL NEGOTIATIONS?