Algeriennes: The Forgotten Women of the Algerian Revolution

The Algerian War of Independence (1954-62) was a bloody conflict between France and the Algerian National Liberation Front. This graphic novel, inspired by real events, follows the investigative efforts of Beatrice, the daughter of a French-Algerian War veteran, as she seeks to understand her family's history and the experiences of women during the war. Through the stories of Saïda, Djamila, Bernadette, and Malika, the novel provides a powerful and moving picture of what both women and men lived through during the Algerian Revolution and why these events have been difficult to discuss.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 120 pages
\n Publication date: 15 September 2020
\n Publisher: Pennsylvania State University Press
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The Algerian War of Independence, also referred to as the Algerian Revolution, was a complex and brutal struggle between France and the Algerian National Liberation Front. This war, which primarily took place in Algeria, caused immense trauma to the citizens on both sides of the Mediterranean. Its impact can still be felt today, and its legacy remains troubled.

Inspired by actual events, this poignant and visually stunning graphic novel takes us on a journey through the story of this confrontation through the eyes of female protagonists.

Algériennes follows the investigative efforts of Beatrice, the daughter of a French-Algerian War veteran. Beatrice's father was unable to share his experiences from the war, leaving her with a burning desire to learn more about this part of her family's history. Determined to uncover the truth, Beatrice embarks on a journey that takes her to Algiers.

Along her way, Beatrice meets several women who share their personal accounts of the war. Saïda, a young girl, narrowly escaped with her family to France, only to find themselves in an internment camp. Djamila, a fierce mujahideen rebel, fought alongside the men and witnessed the horrors of war firsthand. Bernadette, a French woman who refused to leave Algeria after the conflict ended, faced discrimination as a "pied-noir." Malika, a terrorist bomber, fought on the side of the resistance.

As the narrative unfolds, the stories of these women intersect and complement each other, creating a powerful and emotional portrayal of what both women and men experienced during the Algerian Revolution. Through their experiences, we gain a deeper understanding of the reasons why these events have been difficult to discuss and commemorate.

Algériennes is a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit, even in the face of unimaginable adversity. It is a reminder that the legacy of war extends beyond the battlefield and affects the lives of individuals and communities for generations to come. This graphic novel offers a unique perspective on a significant chapter in history, shedding light on the experiences of those who were marginalized and overlooked.

In conclusion, Algériennes is a must-read for anyone interested in history, politics, and the human experience. It is a powerful and poignant exploration of a complex and painful period in history, and it provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of the ongoing struggles for justice and equality.

\n Weight: 890g\n
Dimension: 174 x 250 x 21 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780271086231\n \n