French historian Benjamin Stora emphasized the need for a comprehensive workshop to address Algeria's memory, encompassing archives, education, and certificates. He made this statement on the sidelines of the 29th edition of the Algiers International Book Fair, during a symposium focused on the centenary of the creation of the Étoile Nord-Africaine. Stora highlighted that a simple apology for France's colonial actions in Algeria would not suffice to settle historical differences.
Stora noted that many French people are unaware of the country's colonial past, particularly regarding the national movement in Algeria. He stressed the importance of educational and awareness-raising efforts among the French population, who remain largely ignorant of the colonial system's realities. The historian's comments come as part of his ongoing work on Algeria's history, including his book "Un historien et des images, l'Algérie en guerre (1954-1962)".
The book sheds light on the power of images and representations in shaping the narrative of Algeria's liberation revolution. Stora also highlighted the silence and cover-up of colonial violence against Algerians during this period. He recalled that his work has primarily focused on this topic, marking a significant event 50 years after beginning his research on the Algerian Revolution.
Stora was commissioned by French President Emmanuel Macron to prepare a report on Algeria's memory in 2021. He evaluated the implementation of the report's recommendations as "mixed", with some proposals materializing, including the recognition of the assassination of Algerian revolutionary figures. However, he expressed concerns that the process has slowed down recently.
The historian attributed the slowdown to potential pressure from the far-right in France, which rejects acknowledgment of the country's colonial past. Stora welcomed Macron's initial steps, such as returning the remains of Algerian resistance fighters and acknowledging the assassination of Algerian figures. He emphasized that addressing Algeria's memory requires a sustained effort.
Stora's visit to Algeria coincides with ongoing debates about the country's colonial legacy and its impact on contemporary Franco-Algerian relations. His statements reflect a broader discussion about the need for greater awareness and understanding of this complex history. The historian's work aims to contribute to this effort, promoting a more nuanced understanding of Algeria's past.
The comprehensive workshop proposed by Stora would address various aspects of Algeria's memory, including archives, education, and certificates. This initiative seeks to promote a deeper understanding of the country's history and its ongoing impact on Franco-Algerian relations. By engaging with this complex past, Stora hopes to foster greater awareness and reconciliation.
Key points
- French historian Benjamin Stora calls for a comprehensive workshop to address Algeria's memory.
- Stora evaluates the implementation of recommendations on Algeria's memory as "mixed".
- The historian attributes the slowdown in addressing Algeria's memory to potential pressure from the far-right in France.
