How Algeria’s liberation struggle influenced global freedom movements

The memory of a people who fought against oppression only grows with each anniversary, and this 1 November Algeria marks a profound milestone: the 70th anniversary of its struggle for independence against French colonial rule. Indeed, this was a moment that forever altered the future of the country, as well as having a considerable impact beyond Algeria’s borders. It was a testament to humanity’s unyielding craving for freedom, a beacon of resilience against colonialism, and an enduring reminder that the pursuit of dignity and justice is shared by all.

Freedom and nothing less

On that autumn night in 1954, Algeria declared its revolution—a courageous act by a people determined to reclaim their identity after over 100 years of colonial rule. For many Algerians, the revolution was about more than land; it was a reclamation of self. Colonial forces had imposed foreign rule, but they could not conquer the spirit of a people who remembered their roots, language, and traditions even amid attempts to erase them.

With the opening shots of the revolution, Algeria ignited not just a battle for sovereignty but also strengthened a refusal to accept life without freedom.

This unbreakable resolve didn’t come out of nowhere; it was hardened over years of violence, hardship, and defiance. Just a few years prior, Algeria had witnessed a tragic tipping point: the massacre of 8 May 1945, when French forces brutally repressed peaceful demonstrations during the end of World War II celebrations. On that day, Algerians had gathered, inspired by the global promises of freedom and self-determination that they were promised after so many of had served and given their lives fighting on the French side. They were met with brutal violence—a lasting stain on the conscience of colonial power.

For many Algerians, the 8 May massacre became a defining moment, it was the end of political dialogue and a clear signal that their liberation would be won not with words, but with action.

The revolution came at a heavy price, it was a fight not only against a powerful colonial military but against the pervasive grip of an imposed identity. Entire communities faced displacement, families were torn apart, and lives were lost. Yet, even in the bleakest of times, the spirit of resistance flourished. Stories of heroism and resilience were quietly passed from one generation to the next, fuelling a movement rooted in the conviction that freedom was not only possible, but necessary.

A symbol of liberation

By 1962, when independence was finally won, Algeria had emerged with a deepened awareness of what freedom truly meant—a story not just for itself, but for every nation in pursuit of liberation.

Algeria’s story resonates with countless communities around the world who continue to confront oppression, injustice, settler colonialism and occupation. Just as Algeria refused to give in to colonial pressures, so do countless other peoples across the globe today. From indigenous communities striving to protect their ancestral lands, to marginalised groups and minorities fighting for equality, Algeria’s fight continues to inspire and represent the collective desire for liberation, nothing less.

Whilst there are countless examples of the reach that this chapter in history has had, a few notable ones include the solidarity that the Black Panther Party found in Algeria as they combatted systemic racism and police violence in the United States. This went beyond ideological and political support, to include material help as the newly liberated nation welcomed them by setting up an international Black Panther Party chapter in Algiers.

Likewise, Nelson Mandela and the African National Congress (ANC) drew inspiration from Algeria’s struggle, forming connections that would later aid in dismantling apartheid in South Africa. From shared military training that would equip the ANC with further support in their struggle, to also setting up an office in Algiers, the bond that was formed continues to be recounted in both countries’ histories to this day.

Palestine

Algeria’s unwavering support for Palestine further exemplifies its commitment to global justice. In 1988 during the first Palestinian intifada, Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat, in Algiers, proclaimed an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital. The same was declared by Algeria within minutes, and it was the first country to do so. Algeria has since remained a staunch advocate for Palestine at the United Nations, calling for ceasefires and urging the international community to grant Palestine full UN membership.

The solidarity that Algerians extend to Palestinians both at home and abroad, is infamous. Scenes like those shared following Algeria’s 2019 Africa Cup of Nations victory, during which both players and fans in their thousands around the world flew Palestinian flags on the streets of major cities, and used media platforms to highlight the ongoing plight of Palestine’s occupation, is but a small example of this. Not to mention how Algeria’s football federation is hosting “all official and non-official matches involving the Palestinian team’s preparation for qualification to the 2026 World Cup and 2027 Asian Cup and to assume all associated costs,” in light of Israel’s war on Gaza.

So renowned is Algerians’ support for Palestine’s liberation, with many actors, singers, athletes, political figures, writers, artists, regularly vocalising this, that people are taken aback if they hear the contrary.

Certainly, these alliances underscore Algeria’s role as a beacon of resilience, extending its legacy of resistance to support oppressed peoples globally.

This truth underscores Algeria’s victory and resonates with oppressed populations globally, who continue to hold fast to their right to self-determination.

Algeria's struggle reveals that time does not erode the desire for freedom and justice; instead, it deepens it for each new generation facing occupation. Often it is the occupying force that ultimately dictates the resistance it will confront, as oppression breeds defiance, compelling the oppressed to reclaim what was unjustly taken.

Algeria’s legacy is thus more than a historical milestone; it is a powerful symbol in humanity’s unyielding pursuit of justice, resilience, and dignity. It calls on today’s movements for liberation and equality to persist, reminding us that the quest for freedom is an ongoing struggle.

Reda Amrani is a petroleum engineer from Algeria. Reda has a special interest in North Africa, and is particularly passionate about exploring matters related to energy transition, contemporary history, socio-economy and governance in Algeria. As a descendant of one of the many martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the Algerian revolution against the French occupation, he is deeply committed to preserving the memory of this important historical event.

Follow him on Twitter : @RedaAmrani_

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