Colonialism was one of the most violent chapters of world history. Although France has tried to hide its colonial past and for quite some time, voices remained silent. The Pieds-Noirs were nearly banished from older history books and their life was often ignored by historians.
As the history of the Pieds-Noirs has been hidden for years, it is not surprising that there is only little literature about it. Most books have been published in French even though it is a topic of global interest. Therefore, it is a main goal of this paper to use sources in different languages in order to compare standpoints, to avoid a narrowed view and to allow a global perspective. It shall be pointed out that the discrimination of indigenous people by European powers did not only happen in Algeria but in many other colonies as well and that countries which got independent inspired other colonies.
Contrary to many other publications, this paper will not end with the Algerian independence as the reintegration of the Pieds-Noirs in France will be examined, too. The years following the War of Independence are significant for understanding how easily powers can switch. In this respect, this paper tries to explain the development of the Pieds-Noirs comprehensively – from the beginnings in 1830 until today.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- The History of the Pieds-Noirs in a Global Context
- The Pieds-Noirs: Definition and Terminological Distinction
- French Colonial Interest in Algeria from the Beginnings to Independence
- Beginnings of French Colonization
- Oppression and Racism
- Legitimation of Colonial Violence
- The Fight for Freedom and Independence
- Tensions and Resistance- The War for Equality
- The Algerian War
- The Resistance of the Pieds-Noirs
- Foreign Homeland - The Return of the Pieds-Noirs to France
- Integration Measures of France
- Clash of Cultures: the Pieds-Noirs and the French of the Metropolis
- Conclusion
- Literature
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This paper aims to explore the history of the Pieds-Noirs, a unique group directly connected to both Algeria and France, providing a comprehensive overview of their lives and development. It will delve into the history of their arrival in Algeria, their role in the French colonial system, and their eventual return to France following Algerian independence.
- Racism and oppression of the indigenous population by the Pieds-Noirs
- The Algerian War and its impact on the Pieds-Noirs
- The reintegration of the Pieds-Noirs in France
- The complex history of colonialism and decolonization
- The role of the Pieds-Noirs in the French colonial empire
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: This chapter introduces the topic of the Pieds-Noirs and highlights their historical significance. It emphasizes the lack of attention given to their story in historical research and sets the stage for a comprehensive analysis.
- The History of the Pieds-Noirs in a Global Context: This chapter examines the history of the French presence in Algeria and the unique context of their arrival and eventual retreat. It emphasizes the brutal nature of colonial rule and its impact on both the Pieds-Noirs and the Algerian population.
- The Pieds-Noirs: Definition and Terminological Distinction: This chapter focuses on defining the term "Pieds-Noirs" and differentiating them from other groups within the French colonial system. It provides a clear understanding of who the Pieds-Noirs were and their specific role in the colonial context.
- French Colonial Interest in Algeria from the Beginnings to Independence: This chapter delves into the history of French colonization in Algeria, highlighting the motivations, methods, and consequences of their rule. It examines the development of tensions between the French and the Algerians, leading to the War for Independence.
- Foreign Homeland - The Return of the Pieds-Noirs to France: This chapter explores the experiences of the Pieds-Noirs after Algerian independence, focusing on their return to France and their integration into French society. It addresses the challenges and complexities they faced in adapting to a new life in their "homeland."
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This paper explores key topics such as French colonialism, Algerian independence, Pieds-Noirs, racism, oppression, decolonization, integration, and cultural clash. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Pieds-Noirs and their experiences within the broader context of French colonial history.
- Quote paper
- Clara Omag (Author), 2013, The History of the Pieds-Noirs. The Last Defenders of the French Colonial Empire, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/337685
