Independence Day in Algeria 2023: Algeria celebrates its independence on July 5. On this day, Algeria officially broke away from France. One of the longest and most violent episodes in Algerian history was the eight-year independence war, which came to an end in 1962. There is a palpable sense of pride in one’s heritage and national cohesion throughout the Independence Day festivities.
All around the nation, the flag, which is green and white and symbolises Algeria’s independence. During the Independence, parades, cultural events, and concerts are actively attended by the general public.
HISTORY OF INDEPENDENCE DAY IN ALGERIA
Between 1954 and 1962, there was an independence war. After a protracted period of escalating racial tensions, Algeria experienced this pivotal time in its history. Prejudice was fostered by the miserable living conditions of the European settlers. Due to discrimination, racism, and prejudice, the Arabo-Berber people was seen as and treated as second-class citizens.
On November 1, 1954, the Front de Libération Nationale (F.L.N.) launched a series of assaults around the nation, signaling the start of the independence struggle. Even though France prevailed in several battles throughout the war, the ferocity of the fighting did not find favor with the populace. As a result, France and the international community withdrew their support for France’s occupation over Algeria, thus alienating the Algerian people.
Finally, on March 18, 1962, at Evian, France, an armistice was signed between France and the F.L.N. On Tuesday, July 3, 1962, Charles de Gaulle formally acknowledged Algeria’s independence. Soon after, the United States and Great Britain did the same. Two days after sovereignty was reclaimed, Algerian Independence Day was declared a national holiday.
A million to 350 thousand Algerians are thought to have died throughout the battle. Estimates from sources place the number of Muslim citizens killed or kidnapped and assumed dead by the F.L.N. at least 70,000. The national flag is now proudly flown on this day as a sign of liberty throughout the country.
5 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT ALGERIA
1.It is the greatest African nation: Algeria is the largest nation in Africa and the tenth largest nation on earth.
2.Predominantly arid: It is a portion of the Sahara Desert, which covers 80% of the country’s land area.
3.It features two Nobel laureates: Camus was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1957, while Cohen-Tannoudji was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1997.
4.Home to the smallest fox in the world: The fennec fox is the smallest fox in the world and Algeria’s national animal.
5.It consists of seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The most renowned of Algeria’s seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites is Timgad, a Roman city dating to around 100 A.D.